The countdown is on for UNC basketball fans, and it's shaping up to be a thrilling spring in Chicago. With less than 50 days until the 2026 NBA Draft, Tar Heel standout Caleb Wilson is projected to hear his name called early, likely walking across the Barclays Center stage as a top-five pick. But before that June night in Brooklyn, the action kicks off in the Windy City.
The 2026 NBA Draft Combine gets underway May 10 at Wintrust Arena and the Marriott Marquis in Chicago. This year's event brings together 73 elite prospects from May 10-17, with an additional 44 players competing in the G League Elite Camp starting May 8. It's a prime opportunity for scouts and executives to evaluate the next generation of talent up close.
The draft lottery, also on May 10, sets the stage for the June 23-24 draft in Brooklyn. The Washington Wizards, Indiana Pacers, and Brooklyn Nets each hold a 14% chance at the top pick, while the Utah Jazz and Sacramento Kings aren't far behind at 11.5% apiece.
So, which Tar Heels are heading to Chicago to showcase their skills? Let's break down the UNC contingent making the trip.
Darrion Able — The 6-foot-6 guard from Baltimore made the move from N.C. State to Chapel Hill via the transfer portal on April 21, becoming the first Wolfpack-to-Tar Heel transfer since World War II. As a freshman, Able averaged 8.8 points and 3.4 rebounds while shooting 41.6% from the field and 35.5% from beyond the arc. He's currently not projected in two-round mock drafts, suggesting this combine run is more about gathering feedback and preparing to step into a starting role under head coach Michael Malone. Able has until May 27 at 11:59 p.m. to withdraw from the draft and retain his college eligibility.
Caleb Wilson — The consensus top-five pick is poised to become UNC's highest-drafted player since Marvin Williams (No. 2) and Raymond Felton (No. 5) in 2005. At 6-foot-10, Wilson is a versatile forward with NBA-ready skills. USA TODAY projects him at No. 3 to the Brooklyn Nets, while The Athletic and ESPN both slot him at No. 4—going to the Memphis Grizzlies and Utah Jazz, respectively. In just two seasons, Wilson has already cemented himself as one of the Tar Heels' all-time greats.
Whether it's Able looking to prove he belongs or Wilson solidifying his lottery stock, Chicago will be the first big step on their journey to the NBA. For Tar Heel fans, it's a glimpse of the future—and a reminder that the pipeline from Chapel Hill to the pros is as strong as ever.