NBA

North Carolina’s Caleb Wilson Reveals Childhood Admiration for Nikola Jokic Before His MVP Win

North Carolina’s Caleb Wilson Reveals Childhood Admiration for Nikola Jokic Before His MVP Win

Five-star prospect Caleb Wilson has one player hes always looked to: Nikola Jokic.

Its not because of the 2023 championship, but one similarity Wilson believes he shares with the former MVP.

Speaking to reporters during media availability at the 2026 AWS NBA Draft Combine in Chicago.

Reporters asked him about his favorite players and the biggest influences on his game.

Wilson stated, I really like Jokic.

He was my favorite player, even before his MVP.

I really like how he plays.

I really wasnt that athletic when I was younger, believe it or not.

"I really like Jokic.

He was my favorite player, even before his MVP.

I really wasn't that athletic when I was younger, believe it or not." ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 13, 2026 Caleb Wilson on Nikola Jokic (via @DNVR_Nuggets)pic.twitter.com/kxPyPyIpHv Jokics athleticism has been a talking point throughout his career, but it hasnt held him back.

Jokic uses smart passing and great decision-making to beat opposing teams.

Thats how he became a three-time NBA MVP and won the 2023 Championship as well as the Finals MVP.

Interestingly, both Wilson and Jokic have a similar build.

Wilson is 610 while Jokic is 611.

However, both players play in different positions.

Regardless, Wilson is looking to follow in Jokics footsteps.

His performance so far in the NCAA indicates he can do so.

Wilson backed up his approach during his freshman season at North Carolina.

He posted impressive numbers across the board for his college team.

The talented forward averaged 19.8 points and 9.4 rebounds per game.

He also added 2.7 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.4 blocks per night.

He shot nearly 58% from the field.

He led the Tar Heels in scoring, rebounding, steals, and blocks.

He managed to do all of this even though a thumb injury cut his college season short in early February.

Basketball stars are starting to take notice of his unique talent.

Draymond Green talked about the young prospect on his podcast.

Green called Wilson one of the most special players in the entire draft class.

He noted his potential and his room to keep growing.

Wilson is now projected to be one of the top picks in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Teams like the Memphis Grizzlies, Chicago Bulls, and Utah Jazz are the ideal teams where Wilson can land.

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