Charles Barkley praises Bulls' Caleb Wilson as 'best rookie' in NBA
After dazzling in the NBA Summer League earlier this month, Chicago Bulls rookie Caleb Wilson earned high praise from Hall of Famer Charles Barkley on Tuesday.Wilson was a consensus second-team All-American selection at North Carolina, averaging 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, 2.7 assists, 1.5 steals and 1.4 blocks while shooting 57.8% from the field. He set the freshman program records for scoring average and 20-point games (17).The 6-foot-10 Wilson was highly touted entering the draft because of his versatility, athleticism and physical traits, boasting a 7-foot, 1/4-inch wingspan. Barkley, speaking on the "Dan Patrick Show," believes the Bulls hit a home run by selecting Wilson with the fourth overall pick.I think the Chicago Bulls got the best rookie in the NBA. When I was talking to coaches and general managers, they are like, 'Who would you take with the No. 1 pick?' I said, 'Caleb Wilson.' They are like, 'What do you mean?' I said, 'I like (AJ) Dybantsa. I like (Darryn) Peterson. There was no player I would have taken before Caleb Wilson. Not one.' Peterson and Dybantsa are probably better scorers at this stage, but he can learn how to shoot. Let me tell you something: From an athletic point, he can guard one, two, three, four. Ain't nobody more talented than Caleb Wilson. Period.Wilson was named to the All-Summer League first team, averaging 23.5 points, 7.2 rebounds, 2.5 blocks, 1.8 assists and 1.2 steals while shooting 41.9% from 3-point range in four games. He ranked fourth in total points (94) among all players, having scored 19 or more in each appearance.The 20-year-old has earned comparisons to Hall of Famer Kevin Garnett because of his similar skill set and ability that was on display in Las Vegas. Even "The Big Ticket" has bought into it,reportedly referring to Wilson as "The Little Ticket."Wilson has already become a fan favorite, while also earning approval from a couple of legends in Barkley and Garnett for his potential on the court. While it ultimately remains to be seen which rookie will have the best career, Wilson will enter next season with plenty of hype.This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Charles Barkley praises Bulls' Caleb Wilson as 'best rookie' in NBA