Kansas Freshman Darryn Peterson Still Shining Bright Despite Early Setbacks
Darryn Peterson hasn’t logged many minutes in a Kansas uniform yet, but make no mistake - the buzz around the freshman guard is very real. At 6-foot-6 with a smooth, NBA-ready game, Peterson entered the season as one of the most coveted prospects in the 2026 NBA Draft class. And even with a limited sample size so far, he’s done plenty to remind scouts and fans why he’s been penciled in as a top-three pick from the jump.
Peterson’s season has been slowed by a nagging hamstring injury and, more recently, cramping issues that have kept him sidelined since December 13. He’s only played in four games, but those four outings were enough to showcase the kind of offensive versatility that has NBA teams salivating. He’s averaging 19.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game - numbers that speak to his ability to impact the game at all three levels.
What stands out most about Peterson’s game is his poise. He doesn’t force shots, reads defenses with maturity beyond his years, and has a knack for creating separation with ease. Whether he’s pulling up from midrange, attacking the rim, or spotting up from deep, Peterson looks like a player who can lead an offense - not just in college, but at the next level.
Despite the missed time, some draft projections haven’t budged. In fact, Bleacher Report still has him slotted as the projected No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
That’s a testament not just to his raw talent, but to the flashes he’s already shown against high-level competition. Scouts are clearly confident that once he’s back at full strength, he’ll continue to build on that early momentum.
Kansas head coach Bill Self has labeled Peterson’s current status as “day-to-day,” with the hope that he’ll return in time for the start of Big 12 play on January 3 against UCF. That would be a timely boost for the Jayhawks, who are looking to hit their stride heading into conference play.
Injuries are always part of the story with young prospects, especially those carrying the weight of NBA expectations this early. But with Peterson, the talent is undeniable. If he can stay healthy the rest of the way, don’t be surprised if his draft stock not only holds steady - it climbs even higher.