The Battle for Top Guard in the 2026 NBA Draft: Peterson vs. Acuff
The race to secure the title of top guard in the 2026 NBA Draft is heating up, and it's a showdown that's capturing the attention of scouts and fans alike. Darryn Peterson has long been the frontrunner, but Darius Acuff Jr. is making a compelling case to take over that spot.
Peterson's Talent Under the Microscope
Darryn Peterson, the Kansas standout, is undeniably one of the most talented scorers in college basketball. Averaging 20 points per game with impressive shooting splits of 49% from the field and 43% from beyond the arc, his offensive prowess is NBA-ready. His ability to create shots and his efficiency on the perimeter are top-tier.
Yet, talent alone isn't the full story.
Concerns about Peterson's drive and durability are making waves. When a respected analyst like Jay Williams voices concerns over Peterson's passion and engagement, it can't be ignored.
Williams remarked, "If I were a general manager, I would be extremely concerned about Darryn Peterson. ... His talent is unquestionable.
It's elite. But I don't feel like he really wants to be there."
Such statements reverberate throughout the basketball community, especially with the stakes so high for teams considering investing a top-three pick.
Peterson's grip on the top guard spot is slipping, and the reasons are as much about intangibles as they are about skill.
Acuff's Rise: Production Meets Passion
Enter Darius Acuff Jr., whose relentless rise is turning heads. Averaging 22.9 points and 6.2 assists per game, with shooting percentages of 50.9% from the field and 44% from three, Acuff is not just matching Peterson's numbers-he's surpassing them in key areas.
Critics might point to Acuff's increased minutes, but the truth is, he's earned every second on the court. His availability and resilience are part of what makes him so appealing.
A standout moment came when he scored 49 points in a double-overtime thriller against Alabama, despite being in a walking boot just days before. His coach, John Calipari, shared that when asked if he might miss the game, Acuff responded, "Are you nuts?"
This kind of toughness and commitment resonates deeply with fans, teammates, and NBA executives alike. It's not just about the stats; it's about the heart and leadership that Acuff consistently displays.
Draft Dynamics: The Guard Debate
While AJ Dybantsa and Cameron Boozer remain dominant forces in the forward category, the guard position is where the real intrigue lies. Peterson's scoring potential is undeniable, but the questions surrounding his intangibles are significant. If he can address these concerns, he might still reclaim his top spot.
However, in a draft where every detail matters, Acuff's case is growing stronger. His blend of production, passion, and potential makes him a formidable contender for the top guard position.
The debate is no longer about whether Acuff deserves to be in the conversation-it's about whether he should be leading it.