In five years, when you ask the town of Lawrence, Kan., for their true feelings toward Darryn Peterson, you really don’t know what the response will be.
Darryn Peterson declares for the NBA Draft
Minutes ago, the former five-star and nation’s No. 1 prospect in the 2025 class announced he was taking the next step in his career and moving to the NBA.
— Darryn Peterson (@Darryn_P1) April 24, 2026
This comes after a very productive season, which saw Peterson average 20 .2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists, on a strong 43.8% rate from the field and just 29 minutes per game over 24 games.
While Peterson’s form tapered at points during the end of the season, the freshman still put together stellar nights, including 27 points against Kansas State, 26 points against Baylor, while also taking over in two clutch wins against Texas Tech and TCU.
The biggest problem with Peterson was never his ability; it was just the nation’s perception of him.
Injuries broke up a special season
Since literally exhibition one against Louisville, Peterson struggled with leg cramps; these cramps often saw him play fantastic basketball for one half and nearly sit out the entire second period.
While at first it was something fans were able to forgive, as the season wore on, that excuse quickly wore out. Then you combine that with hamstring tightness, a sprained ankle, and flu-like symptoms, all of which were also hindering time on the court.
Peterson himself was also rarely around for press conferences or interviews, often leaving the public to speculate on their own, a dangerous game that often pinned the blame on him and questioned his passion for the game.
A late return to the spotlight
Later in the season, Peterson revealed the extent of his cramping issues, which quickly brought fans back on his side, but thanks to the Jayhawks suffering a semifinal exit to the Houston Cougars in the Big 12 Tournament, and a round of 32 loss at the hands of St. John’s, it is fair to ask how long did Kansas ever get to see Peterson play at his absolout best? Something that may not be answered until his rookie season tips off at the next level.
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