The Kansas Jayhawks have been at the center of college basketball chatter this season, largely due to the enigmatic performances of their star freshman, Darryn Peterson. A top NBA prospect, Peterson's journey has been anything but straightforward, missing 11 games due to various issues and often exiting games early due to cramping. This was evident once again in Kansas’ recent victory over Oklahoma State.
During that game, Peterson, despite showing no visible signs of distress, signaled to head coach Bill Self to take him out after making a shot. He logged just 18 minutes on the court but still emerged as the team's leading scorer with 23 points, while his fellow starters each played over 30 minutes. Coach Self, who has consistently supported Peterson through the season's ups and downs, expressed his surprise at the situation.
“We've had this happen more than a couple of times,” Self remarked post-game. “I thought he was good to go.
We only got 18 minutes out of him. That’s disappointing, because he could’ve had a really big night.”
The drama surrounding Peterson has caught the attention of many, including ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith.
Known for his candid commentary, Smith didn’t hold back, questioning Peterson’s reliability as a potential No. 1 NBA draft pick.
“Let me say this. There is no team in hell that should grab Darryn Peterson at No.
1,” Smith stated emphatically. “The first ability is availability.
My brother, Darryn Peterson, I hope you’re watching because I’m talking directly to him… what the hell is going on? You are a college player.
There’s 24-25 games, he’s already missed about 11-12. You pull yourself out?
You make a J, then look at the coach, ‘I want to get out of here,’ and it’s not the first time he’s done it.”
Smith continued, “I can’t believe what I’m seeing from this guy. This guy is a sensational player… this is business.
I can’t trust him. You cannot be trusted.
The NBA is a business, it’s 82 regular-season games… you’re invoking your own load management. You are a freshman in college.
How can I trust you? How can I invest in you?”
Peterson has managed to play 30-plus minutes in just six of the 15 games he’s participated in this season. As the Jayhawks gear up for their next matchup against Cincinnati, there's no current injury designation for Peterson. With the regular season winding down and the conference tournament on the horizon, all eyes will be on how Peterson and the team navigate these critical final games.