Skip to main content

Darryn Peterson delivers powerful 2-word message after Kansas escaped vs Cal Baptist

The job isn't done for the Jayhawks in the NCAA Tournament.
Mar 20, 2026; San Diego, CA, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Darryn Peterson (22) controls the ball against California Baptist Lancers guard Martel Williams (33) in the first half during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Mar 20, 2026; San Diego, CA, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Darryn Peterson (22) controls the ball against California Baptist Lancers guard Martel Williams (33) in the first half during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

It may not have been the prettiest win, but Kansas is moving on in the NCAA Tournament after what should have been a blowout. The Jayhawks seemed ot have the game well in hand midway through the second half of their matchup against Cal Baptist, but give credit to the Lancers as they didn't go away quietly.

Cal Baptist got within six points in the final minutes of the game, but couldn't fully close a gap that was as wide as 26 points. However, when it mattered most in the final minute and a half, Kansas was able to pull itself together and make sure the Lancers didn't take any sort of lead.

Darryn Peterson talked a lot about coming out and being a guy his team could depend on in the NCAA Tournament, and after a slow start, he finally became that guy for the Jayhawks. Peterson was the leading scorer overall with 28 points and truly put together a great tournament debut.

Darryn Peterson reminds the Kansas Jayhawks the job isn't finished

As the Jayhawks walked off the court and into the locker room late Friday night, Darryn Peterson could be heard saying something to the camera, and it was a great reminder to every Kansas player, coach, and fan.

"Five more," Peterson said.

When starting the NCAA Tournament, a team, unless it is a First Four team, has to win six games to be the National Champions. So, with Kansas winning their first, Peterson was reminding himself and everyone else that they need five more to reach the ultimate glory of a title.

This is something Kansas fans have to love, especially with how Peterson's season has gone, and some are questioning whether or not he actually cared about the Jayhawks. Peterson is focused on winning at Kansas before he heads to the NBA, and as he said before the game, he is going to let his talent and play do the talking.

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations