Former Duke star and ESPN analyst Jay Williams delivered some massive praise for Caleb Wilson during a recent appearance on Get Up, and it’s the kind of statement that has UNC fans buzzing ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft.
When asked by host Mike Greenberg which prospect from this draft class could eventually become the best player in the long run, Williams pointed directly to the former North Carolina standout.
Williams explained that his evaluation of Wilson has evolved the more he watches him play. Early on, he believed Wilson’s floor looked similar to former NBA All-Star Jermaine O’Neal, while his ceiling reminded him of Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett.
But now, according to Williams, those comparisons have shifted even higher.
He said Wilson’s current level already resembles Kevin Garnett, while his ultimate ceiling could be comparable to Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
That’s an eye-opening statement considering Garnett and Giannis are two of the greatest and most versatile power forwards the game has ever seen. Garnett built a Hall of Fame career with elite defense, intensity, and leadership, while Giannis has become one of the NBA’s most dominant modern superstars because of his athleticism, versatility, and ability to impact every area of the game.
For Williams to mention Wilson alongside those names shows just how highly he views the young prospect’s potential.
Although Wilson hasn’t received the same level of nonstop national attention as some other players in the draft class, NBA scouts and analysts continue to be impressed by his size, skill set, versatility, and long-term upside. Many believe he still has another level he can reach once he enters the NBA.
UNC fans have already seen why Wilson is considered one of the most intriguing prospects in the class, and comments like these only continue to build excitement around his future.
The NBA Draft process is still ongoing, but one thing is becoming increasingly clear: Caleb Wilson’s stock is climbing fast, and some basketball experts believe his ceiling could be among the highest in the entire class.
