Darryn Peterson declares for NBA Draft after injury-plagued freshman season at Kansas
Mar 22, 2026; San Diego, CA, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Darryn Peterson (22) controls the ball against St. John’s Red Storm guard Oziyah Sellers (4) in the second half during a second round game of the men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Kansas freshman Darryn Peterson officially declared for the NBA Draft on Friday, ending a tumultuous but promising debut season with the Jayhawks. The 6-foot-6 guard is projected as the No. 2 pick according to CBS Sports and figures to be among the first three players selected in June’s draft.
Peterson’s announcement came as part of a wave of high-profile declarations, joining AJ Dybantsa and Duke’s Duke in what’s widely considered one of the most talented draft classes in recent years. Most mock drafts have Peterson or Dybantsa going first overall, though Boozer also could be in the mix.
A season of flashes and frustrations
Despite showing flashes of brilliance, Peterson’s freshman campaign was marked by significant health challenges that limited his impact. The guard missed 11 games due to various issues, including a severe full-body cramping problem that required hospitalization before the season, hamstring injuries, and additional illnesses.
When healthy, Peterson was dominant. He averaged 20.2 points and 4.2 rebounds while shooting 38.2% from beyond the arc in 24 games. The guard earned All Big 12 selection, Honorable Mention AP All American, and All Big 12 Freshman honors. His best performances came in the postseason, including 28 points in a first-round NCAA tournament win over Cal Baptist and 21 in a last-second loss to St. John’s.
« To my teammates, friends and everyone at the University of Kansas, a heartfelt thank you! » Peterson posted to social media. « Your belief in me, your encouragement and your constant support have been invaluable every step of the way. This journey has been everything to me, and none of it would have been possible without your love, support and sacrifices. »
The closest comparison to Peterson has generally been Devin Booker of the Phoenix Suns. Both possess the ability to score at all three levels, and their athleticism allows them to play much bigger than their size. Should Peterson go on to be the No. 1 pick, he’d join Andrew Wiggins as No. 1 draft choices under Bill Self, and could become Kansas’ first top-five pick since Josh Jackson in 2017.
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