When a coveted 5-star recruit steps into the spotlight, the entire world of college basketball feels the ripple effect. Fans, much like armchair quarterbacks, feel the urge to predict his future, as if their words could sway the ultimate decision. Ever since AJ Dybantsa’s jaw-dropping $7 million NIL deal with BYU, the stakes for top-tier players have reached new heights. Now, this No. 6 ranked recruit in ESPN’s Top 100 for 2025 is at the center of a recruiting frenzy, with his decision set to be revealed this Thursday.

As the countdown to Caleb Wilson’s announcement continues, fans are offering their predictions and speculations. One fan, for example, took to X, saying, “I just don’t understand how Caleb Wilson could go to North Carolina after they lost again tonight. Meanwhile, Kentucky is building a special program under Mark Pope. #BBN.”

The implication is clear: Wilson, a talented forward with offers from powerhouse programs like Kentucky, North Carolina, and Ohio State, could sway his decision based on a team’s trajectory.

Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 205 pounds, Wilson’s skill set has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats. His versatility on the court allows him to dominate both ends of the floor, making him a prized recruit for any program. He has already caught the eye of the biggest names in college basketball, such as Hubert Davis and Mark Pope, and with Thursday’s announcement looming, fans are holding their breath.

The countdown begins: Will Caleb Wilson join the Pope and his Wildcats or head to Chapel Hill?

Adding fuel to the fire, one fan’s post read, “Joe Adams says Thursday will be fun, get your champagne ready. Could Caleb Wilson be a Cat?” The phrase “Could Caleb Wilson be a Cat?” speaks to Kentucky fans’ optimism, believing the Wildcats’ storied program could land the highly sought-after forward. Kentucky’s 14-4 record, including a 6-2 standing in the SEC, certainly presents an enticing opportunity for any recruit.

However, not all fans are as optimistic. Another fan commented, “Unfortunately he’s UNC bound,” reflecting the growing sentiment that North Carolina’s current recruitment efforts might sway Wilson. UNC’s record of 12-9, though not stellar, has seen a surge in recent recruitment wins. Hubert Davis, UNC’s head coach, has secured several five-star recruits over his tenure, including Elliot Cadeau (2023), Ian Jackson (2024), and Drake Powell (2024). This winning streak has fans buzzing with the belief that Wilson could be the latest addition to this star-studded list.

For those who feel that Wilson is leaning toward UNC, one fan added, “Caleb Wilson choosing Hubert Davis over Mark Pope is hilarious,” paired with a gif captioned “secure the bag.” This comment speaks to the larger narrative of NIL deals and financial incentives in college basketball today. Fans recognize the importance of NIL in a recruit’s decision-making process, and some are speculating that UNC, with its ample resources and lucrative deals, could be the deciding factor.

Another fan noted, “They just lost Caleb Wilson with that game…Has probably been a UK lock the entire time but last night was the nail in the coffin…Any hopes of Caleb going to UNC to play for Hubert just flew out the window last night.” The Tar Heels lost 67-66 to Wake Forest.

The pressure is on for both programs, as Wilson’s decision could drastically change the trajectory of one team’s future. UNC has already secured two four-star recruits in Derek Dixon and Isaiah Denis, but Wilson could be the piece that elevates them into national championship contention. On the other hand, Kentucky’s storied program under Mark Pope promises its own allure.

As Thursday inches closer, fans continue to speculate. Some predict that Wilson will make his decision based on the chance to be a star in a program like North Carolina, while others believe the bright lights of Kentucky’s success under Coach Pope could sway him to become a Wildcat. Either way, fans are eagerly waiting for Wilson’s decision—and it’s clear that the landscape of college basketball will be shaped by his choice.