Caleb Wilson’s Shooting Journey: Confidence Amid Challenges

Caleb Wilson, Chicago Bulls rookie, faced challenges in Wednesday’s game against the New York Knicks, which resulted in a 133-127 loss. During the first quarter, Wilson moved around a screen, needing minimal space to attempt a shot. Though confident and natural in his approach, the ball fell short, hitting the front of the rim. This isn’t unusual for Wilson, whose shooting from 3-point range hasn’t been effective. Prior to this game, he had made only eight out of 36 attempts, a 22.2% success rate.

Wilson’s Shooting Statistics:

• Averages 7.2 shots per game from behind the arc.
• Second-highest shooter on the Bulls after Norman Powell’s 8.2 attempts.
• More 3-point attempts than any other rookie from the 2026 class, though Darius Acuff Jr. from the Sacramento Kings averages 8.5 shots per game.

Bulls coach Tiago Splitter remains supportive. Despite Wilson’s low shooting percentage, Splitter encourages him to keep shooting. He views this as essential for a young player’s growth in the NBA.

“It’s part of their development. If you’re open, you’ve got to shoot it. You practice it every day and you’ve got to take them.”

Wilson’s creativity as a shooter and passer is evident, and Splitter supports his offensive development. He encourages understanding the difference between good and bad shots, a lesson Wilson has started to grasp.

Wilson admits that playing in the NBA presents unique challenges. Adjusting to the speed at which opportunities appear and disappear is key. Each game tests his comfort level on this new stage, with the deep ball ranking high on his season goals.

Past Performance:

• During his time at North Carolina, Wilson attempted only 27 3-point shots, making seven (25.9% success rate).
• Impressed by hitting seven 3-pointers in his summer league debut, yet his accuracy has since evened out.

Despite starting the NBA season with some difficulties, Wilson remains committed to proving his shooting skills. Against the Knicks, his confidence showed. Even after missing his first three attempts, he completed his last three successfully.

“I’m just going to keep proving I’m a shooter.”

Wilson’s resilience fuels his belief that improvement will come with time. He draws strength from understanding his own abilities, likening this season to adapting to a new job.

“I know who I am. It’s going to happen. It’s the beginning of my first year in the NBA. You expect some type of hardship no matter what.”