Through the first eight games of the season, Kansas basketball has already taken fans on a bit of a rollercoaster. With star freshman Darryn Peterson sidelined since the second game against North Carolina, head coach Bill Self has had to get creative - and a few unexpected names have stepped up in a big way to keep the Jayhawks rolling.
Let’s break down three players who’ve emerged as early-season surprises, helping Kansas stay competitive while they await Peterson’s return.
MJ McDowell: From Depth Piece to Difference Maker
Coming into the year, MJ McDowell wasn’t exactly on anyone’s shortlist of breakout candidates. The redshirt sophomore was expected to be a rotational guard, someone who could spell minutes for the starters but not necessarily shape the outcome of games. That narrative has shifted - and fast.
McDowell has recently logged career highs in minutes, playing 34 and 28 in back-to-back games, and he’s made those opportunities count. He’s found his rhythm from beyond the arc, hitting multiple threes in each of those contests. At 6-foot-4 and 180 pounds, McDowell brings a mix of perimeter shooting and defensive intensity that Kansas has needed, especially with Peterson out.
What stands out is the leap he’s made from his early struggles in the rotation. He’s playing with confidence, defending with energy, and spacing the floor - all traits that could keep him in the mix even when the lineup is back at full strength. McDowell may not have been in the spotlight to start the season, but he’s earning his way into Self’s trusted circle.
Zach Tiller: The Unexpected Anchor at the Four
Kansas entered the season with questions at the power forward spot. Zach Tiller, a redshirt freshman, was one of several names in the conversation - but not necessarily the favorite. That’s changed in a hurry.
Tiller has not only secured the starting role, but he’s also making a strong case to keep it for the long haul. He’s averaging 9.5 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, showing off a versatile offensive skill set. He can bang down low with a deep bag of post moves, but he’s also flashed a capable jumper, making him a threat both inside and out.
What’s impressive is how quickly he’s adapted to the speed and physicality of the college game. Tiller was something of a forgotten name from last year’s recruiting class, but he’s proving he belongs. He’s giving Kansas a steady presence at the four - a position that looked like a question mark just a few weeks ago.
Elmarko White: The Glue Guy With Star Power
Elmarko White came into the season with expectations - fans knew he could play. But few probably predicted just how impactful he’d be, especially on the offensive end.
White is currently averaging 14.4 points per game, trailing only Flory Bidunga and the sidelined Peterson. That’s a career high, and he’s doing it with remarkable efficiency: shooting 54.1% from the field, 43.5% from three, and 83.0% from the free-throw line. Those are elite-level splits, and they speak to how polished his offensive game has become.
He’s scoring at all three levels, drawing fouls, and serving as a stabilizer when the offense hits a lull. But what really sets White apart is his versatility.
He can play multiple positions, defend across the perimeter, and slide into whatever role Self needs on a given night. He’s not just a role player - he’s become the glue that holds this team together.
Bottom Line:
With Peterson out, Kansas needed players to rise to the moment - and McDowell, Tiller, and White have done just that.
Whether it’s McDowell’s emergence as a two-way guard, Tiller’s steady production in the frontcourt, or White’s do-it-all presence, these three have given the Jayhawks a boost when they needed it most. And when Peterson returns?
Don’t be surprised if these guys are still playing major roles.