Every Kansas basketball fan anticipated that the 2025-26 Jayhawks would lean heavily on high school sensation Darryn Peterson. Ranked as the No. 2 player in his class, Peterson is the most highly regarded recruit to commit to Bill Self and the program since Andrew Wiggins more than a decade ago.
That reliance has only become more apparent in the wake of Kansas’ recent roster upheaval. Five players have already entered the transfer portal, including projected starter Flory Bidunga, whom Peterson had previously named as the teammate he was most eager to play alongside.
As the roster turnover continued, concerns began to rise among Jayhawk fans about Peterson’s commitment. However, during McDonald’s All-American Media Day, Self directly addressed the situation with his prized recruit.
“[Coach Self] asked, ‘Are you worried?’ I said, ‘No.’ He said, ‘You better not be.'”
As a potential No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, Peterson needs an environment that allows him to maximize his talent. His confidence in the program is a reassuring sign for Kansas fans.
Bill Self is no stranger to rebuilding rosters, and the Jayhawks are sure to bring in several key transfers throughout the offseason. While it remains to be seen how KU’s lineup will take shape in the coming months, Peterson appears certain that Kansas will put the right pieces in place.
Leave a Reply