After the top three picks went as expected, Chicago was on the clock. AJ Dybantsa was drafted first overall by the Washington Wizards, Darryn Peterson went second to the Utah Jazz, and Cameron Boozer rounded out the top three, heading to the Memphis Grizzlies. With one name stealing most of the pre-draft buzz regarding the Windy City’s next face of the franchise, the fourth selection followed suit in going as anticipated. The Bulls landed an absolute star in Caleb Wilson. A former five-star high school recruit, Wilson was named to the First-team All-ACC and was on track to make a deep run in the postseason before fracturing his left hand in February, which sidelined him for the remainder of his freshman season and college career. He’s only 19 years old, has the perfect NBA frame at 6’10”, and is primed to be the next big thing in a reborn franchise.
Face Of The Franchise
Matas Buzelis has become the fan-favorite since being drafted in 2024 with his explosive plays on both ends of the floor and his accelerated rise to stardom. With a completely revamped roster and front office, Chicago is searching for a new identity, and Wilson gives the youngster a perfect running mate. After acquiring Nic Claxton in a three-team trade last night, the Bulls will now boast one of the youngest, most athletic, and highest-energy frontcourts in the league.
Coming In Hungry
Unlike the majority of the 2026 NBA Draft class, Caleb Wilson didn’t have the opportunity to play for the ultimate prize in March. After putting together one of the most impressive freshman seasons at one of the most historic blue blood collegiate basketball programs, his chance at NCAA history was cut short due to his hand injury. Having missed out on playing for an NCAA Tournament title, Wilson’s more motivated than any of the incoming freshmen to make his mark, play for a title, and prove that he’s the ultimate competitor on the biggest stage. Part of the reason he fell to four was the fact that this was one of the most stacked draft classes of recent memory, but it should also be noted that he still cracked the top four despite missing his shot at improving his draft positioning with a strong March showing.
Bulls fans should be ecstatic with this selection. Their first chance in over a decade at building a young core into a long-term contending group. How far can Tiago Splitter, Matas Buzelis, and Caleb Wilson take Chicago in what hopes to be an organizational revival?
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