The Chicago Bulls have selected Caleb Wilson with the No. 4 pick in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft. Wilson, a six-foot-nine-inch forward, was one of the top prospects in a highly anticipated 2026 draft class. His athleticism, versatility, transition play, and long-term potential have all been highlighted by scouts, making him an obviously promising addition to Chicago’s ongoing rebuild.
Wilson spoke to Lisa Salters after the Bulls selected him and revealed his initial reactions to going fourth overall at the 2026 NBA Draft.
“That kid got here by hard work, believing in himself, and having a great support system. I just kept tunnel vision, kept working until it’s time I see red man,” said Wilson on how a young kid from Atlanta reached the level of becoming the fourth overall pick.
The 19-year-old guard suffered multiple fractures earlier this season. He believed that he faced that adversity for a reason.
“It’s doing great, it’s doing great. And I feel great. I feel like that happened for a reason. I’m grateful for the opportunity to play in the NBA, and I feel that if it didn’t happen, I wouldn’t be in the position I am in now,” Wilson said.
Wilson has a multi-year NIL deal with New Balance and began giving back to his community as soon as he turned pro. His father spoke about what his philanthropic side says about him.
“It says how genuine he is. He’s a true lover of the community. He loves to look out for and give back to as many kids as possible. Shows his genuine, true authenticity as a person.”
Before the NBA Draft tonight, Wilson spoke about his intentions on whichever team drafts him, since he didn’t know it would be the Bulls at the time. He made some bold claims while talking about his own expectations for himself.
“God will put me where I need to be, draft-wise. I want to be in a place where they feel they can make me the franchise player. So whoever believes that, that’s who I want to pick me, and I’m going to go do the rest,” Wilson said on ESPN.
“I’m just hungry, bro… I want to be the greatest ever. It’s not out of my reach. I’ve been blessed to have the height, the athleticism, and everything I need to become a great player. So it’s all up to me now. I’ll work hard, I’ll be the hardest worker. I’ll do whatever it takes. But I’m hungry.”
The 19-year-old played one standout season of college basketball at the University of North Carolina (UNC), averaging 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game during the 2025–26 season. He shot 57.8% from the field during this time.
Wilson met with new head coach Tiago Splitter and worked out with Chicago before the draft, according to recent reports, which fueled rumors that the Bulls would select him if he was still available for the fourth pick.
Chicago has now added a solid piece to their young rebuilding roster, which was already stacked with guards, centers, and needed a forward/wing like Wilson to complete the rebuilding process. It will be fascinating to see how the Bulls maximize Wilson’s growth in the coming season.
