As Kansas gears up for a pivotal stretch in Big 12 play, the health of star freshman Darryn Peterson remains one of the biggest question marks. The buzz around Peterson was sky-high when the season tipped off - and for good reason. But what was supposed to be a breakout campaign has been derailed by a string of injuries that have kept him from finding any real rhythm.
It started with a hamstring issue that sidelined him early. Then came cramping problems.
Most recently, a sprained ankle suffered against Colorado on January 20 knocked him out of the first Sunflower Showdown against Kansas State. Now, with the Jayhawks staring down back-to-back challenges, including a matchup against No.
13 BYU, Peterson’s availability is still uncertain. Head coach Bill Self has expressed optimism, but until Peterson is cleared, Kansas has to prepare for life without him - at least for another game.
If Peterson can’t go, the Jayhawks will need a collective effort to fill the void. Fortunately, a few key players have already shown they’re capable of stepping up when the moment calls.
Melvin Council Jr.: The Steady Hand
When Kansas has needed someone to take the reins, Melvin Council Jr. has been that guy. The senior guard has quietly become a stabilizing force, particularly when Peterson has been off the floor.
His numbers - 13.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game - are solid, but they only tell part of the story. What stands out is how he’s elevated his play in key moments.
Take the UCF game, for example. Peterson started but exited early in the second half with an injury.
Council responded with a 20-point performance, most of it coming down the stretch. And he’s kept that momentum rolling.
Against Kansas State and Colorado, Council dropped 17 and 18 points, respectively, showing off his ability to score at all three levels and create for others.
What makes Council so valuable isn’t just his scoring - it’s his court vision and decision-making. He’s a connector, someone who can run the offense, make the right read, and get teammates involved. If Peterson is sidelined again, Council will likely shoulder a heavier load - and based on recent performances, he’s more than ready for it.
Flory Bidunga: The Anchor in the Paint
Flory Bidunga has been a force in the frontcourt all season long. The sophomore big man is averaging 14.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game - and those numbers are no fluke. He’s emerged as one of the most impactful rim protectors in college basketball, and his presence on both ends of the floor has been massive for Kansas.
Bidunga’s growth from last season is obvious. He’s logging nearly twice as many minutes and making the most of every one.
Offensively, he’s developed a strong sense of positioning, using his strength and footwork to gain leverage in the post. Defensively, he’s not just swatting shots - he’s controlling the glass, averaging 6.3 defensive rebounds per game and limiting second-chance opportunities for opponents.
Against a BYU team that likes to stretch the floor and attack the rim, Bidunga’s ability to protect the paint and clean up the boards will be critical. If Kansas wants to control the tempo and keep BYU from getting into rhythm offensively, it starts with Bidunga holding things down in the middle.
Bryson Tiller: The X-Factor
Bryson Tiller might not be the first name that jumps out on the stat sheet, but don’t sleep on his impact. The freshman forward is averaging 8.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game - and he’s starting to come into his own as Big 12 play heats up.
Tiller had a breakout performance against Kansas State, dropping 16 points on 6-of-8 shooting and going a perfect 4-for-4 from the free throw line. It was his first double-digit scoring game since conference play began, and it couldn’t have come at a better time.
Tiller’s size and athleticism make him a valuable piece, especially in matchups like the one against BYU, where defending AJ Dybantsa will be a key priority. Dybantsa is a tough cover - he’s physical, skilled, and relentless around the rim. Tiller has the tools to at least make things difficult, and his ability to rotate in when Bidunga needs a breather gives Kansas some much-needed depth in the frontcourt.
As Tiller continues to get more comfortable, his role could expand. And if Peterson is out, don’t be surprised if Tiller sees a bump in minutes - especially if Kansas wants to go big and control the paint.
Kansas is entering a critical stretch, and while the hope is that Darryn Peterson will be back soon, the Jayhawks have already shown they’re not a one-man team. Council, Bidunga, and Tiller each bring something different to the table, and all three will be key if Kansas wants to keep pace in a loaded Big 12.
Whether Peterson suits up or not, this team has options - and more importantly, it has players who are ready to rise to the moment.