St. John’s Extends Lead Before Halftime in March Madness Clash with Kansas St. John’s took control of its NCAA Tournament matchup against No. 4 Kansas in the second round of March Madness, building a 34-26 halftime lead despite early struggles. The Red Storm, ranked No. 5, faced challenges in the first half, shooting just 29% from the field and enduring stretches where they missed multiple shots. However, Rick Pitino’s defensive strategies limited Kansas to 10-of-29 shooting and forced nine turnovers, which St. John’s converted into 12 points. The Jayhawks’ star freshman, Darryn Peterson, was held in check, scoring only three points after hitting two early 3-pointers. The game’s biggest disparity came from the 3-point line. Kansas attempted only six 3s, making two, while St. John’s hit 7-of-23. Zuby Ejiofor, the Big East Player of the Year, led the Red Storm with 14 points and 11 rebounds in the first round against Northern Iowa, but struggled in this matchup, scoring just two points on 1-of-5 shooting. Pitino acknowledged the challenge, telling reporters, “They don’t believe we can shoot, and we’re proving them right. We’re gonna keep shooting them until they go in.” Kansas faced its own struggles, particularly in the paint. Flory Bidunga, the team’s leading rebounder and third-leading scorer, was sidelined early in the first half after picking up two quick fouls. Without his presence, the Jayhawks struggled to find consistency, going more than four minutes without a point at one point. Despite a brief surge by Peterson, who hit back-to-back 3s after St. John’s opened the game with a 3-of-4 shooting run, the Red Storm maintained their lead. The matchup also highlighted the coaching rivalry between Pitino and Bill Self, two of the most successful coaches in college basketball history.#darryn_peterson #kansas #rick_pitino #st_john_s #flory_bidunga
Darryn Peterson scores 28 as No. 4 Kansas survives late collapse vs. No. 13 Cal Baptist No. 4 Kansas secured a hard-fought 68-60 victory over No. 13 Cal Baptist in the first round of the NCAA tournament, overcoming a dramatic late rally by the Lancers. Darryn Peterson led the Jayhawks with 28 points, outperforming Cal Baptist’s Dominique Daniels Jr., who scored 20 of his 25 points in the second half. The win advances Kansas to face Rick Pitino and No. 5 St. John’s on Sunday, with the winner potentially facing Duke in the Sweet 16 if the Blue Devils defeat TCU on Saturday. Peterson’s performance was pivotal in Kansas’ success. After a slow start, he took control of the game, finishing the first half with 15 points on 6-of-14 shooting. His contested step-back 3-pointer to beat the buzzer capped a seven-point scoring run for Kansas. He continued his dominance in the second half, extending his streak of 10 consecutive points with a 3-pointer. Despite Cal Baptist’s 10-0 run that cut Kansas’ lead to 64-42, Peterson answered with a floater in traffic to stabilize the Jayhawks’ advantage. The Lancers mounted an 18-4 run in the final two minutes, trimming the deficit to 66-60. However, Kansas’ lead proved sufficient to secure the win. The Jayhawks scored only one bucket in the game’s final 5:43, with a Tre White dunk with 13 seconds remaining. Peterson, who didn’t touch the ball on several critical possessions, contributed 1 rebound, 1 assist, and 2 steals but didn’t score in the final minutes. The game highlighted Kansas’ resilience and Peterson’s ability to rise to the occasion. Despite a slow start, Peterson’s clutch play ensured the Jayhawks avoided a potential upset. His performance also underscored the challenges he faced during the season. Initially projected as the No.#darryn_peterson #rick_pitino #dominique_daniels_jr #no_4_kansas #cal_baptist
St. John’s forward Dillon Mitchell faces off against Kansas in his sixth career matchup as the Jayhawks aim for a second-round berth SAN DIEGO — Dillon Mitchell, a 6-foot-8 forward for St. John’s, is preparing for his sixth game against Kansas, a matchup that carries significant weight for both teams. Mitchell, who previously played at Texas and Cincinnati, has a deep understanding of Kansas’ style of play, having faced the Jayhawks multiple times. His experience could be crucial as St. John’s seeks its first deep postseason run in 27 years. Mitchell, now a senior, has become a key player for the Red Storm, though his averages of 8.2 points and 7.0 rebounds are modest compared to his past performances. However, teammates like Bryce Hopkins highlight his impact, noting his intelligence, unselfishness, and ability to create opportunities for the team. “We wouldn’t be where we are today without Dillon Mitchell,” Hopkins said, emphasizing his role in the team’s success. The matchup against Kansas is particularly challenging for St. John’s, as the Jayhawks’ physicality and pace have evolved since Mitchell’s last encounters. Kansas’ star guard Darryn Peterson, who scored 28 points in a recent win over Cal Baptist, poses a unique threat. Mitchell acknowledged Peterson’s NBA-level skills, describing his ability to score from all areas and draw fouls. “It’s NBA moves, pro moves that he does,” Mitchell said, underscoring the difficulty of containing him. St. John’s will need to counter Kansas’ big men, Flory Bidunga and Bryson Tiller, who are likely to match up against Mitchell and Ejiofor. Despite the challenges, Mitchell remains confident, citing his familiarity with Kansas’ strategies and the excitement of facing a familiar opponent.#darryn_peterson #kansas #st_john_s #dillon_mitchell #bryce_hopkins
Kansas Star Darryn Peterson's Health Concerns Spark Draft Uncertainty Darryn Peterson, the star guard for the University of Kansas, faces mounting scrutiny as his health issues and evolving draft prospects complicate his path to the NBA. The 19-year-old, once considered a top-tier prospect for the 2026 NBA Draft, has opened up about a severe full-body cramp that hospitalized him, altering his approach to basketball and prompting him to sub in games to prioritize his well-being. His candid revelations have raised questions about his commitment to the sport and his ability to perform at the highest level. Peterson’s situation has intensified as he prepares to face California Baptist in the NCAA tournament’s first round. The matchup offers a chance for him to elevate his stock, but it also risks drawing further attention to his health concerns. Scouts and NBA teams are now weighing his potential against emerging talent, with BYU forward AJ Dybantsa emerging as a safer choice for the No. 1 overall pick. Dybantsa’s consistent athleticism and lower injury risk have made him a more attractive option in a deep draft class that could yield multiple superstars. Despite the doubts, Peterson remains a standout talent with significant NBA upside. His ability to adapt and overcome injuries will be critical to his long-term success. However, the NBA’s business-driven nature means teams must balance risk with reward, prioritizing selections that maximize their chances of securing elite players. Peterson’s recent health struggles, combined with reports of diminished athleticism since high school, have added layers of uncertainty for evaluators. The draft process will rely heavily on individual workouts, where teams can assess Peterson’s skills and character firsthand.#aj_dybantsa #darryn_peterson #nba_draft #university_of_kansas #california_baptist
Darryn Peterson’s Struggles with Injuries and Doubt Define His Freshman Season Darryn Peterson’s freshman season at Kansas has been defined by inconsistency, injury, and a growing narrative questioning his commitment. The once-promising prospect, entering the year as a top NBA draft prospect, has faced a series of setbacks that have kept him sidelined and in doubt. From full-body cramps that forced him to the hospital to a string of injuries and early exits, Peterson’s journey has become a complex story of resilience and uncertainty. The turning point came in late December when Peterson collapsed during a routine practice, suffering from severe cramps that left him in excruciating pain. After receiving two IV bags of fluids at the hospital, he was left wondering what had caused the sudden breakdown. “It was a traumatic experience,” Peterson admitted, describing the incident as a moment that cast a shadow over his season. Since then, he has missed 11 games and left others early, often signaling to the bench mid-game as his legs failed him. The narrative around Peterson has shifted from high expectations to skepticism. Questions like “Does he care?” have followed him all season, fueled by his inconsistent performance and a series of setbacks. Injuries have played a major role: a bug in December, a sprained ankle in January, and flu-like symptoms in February that led to his disappearance from a game against Arizona. His struggles have raised doubts about his dedication, with some critics suggesting NBA teams might be wary of his commitment. Coach Bill Self, who has been a vocal supporter of Peterson, acknowledged the impact of the injuries on the player’s rhythm and confidence. “The stops and starts definitely impacted him,” Self said. “Conditioning, rhythm, team rhythm, a lot of things.#ncaa_tournament #darryn_peterson #kansas #bill_self #stephen_a_smith
NBA Draft Prospects to Watch in March Madness The NCAA Tournament serves as a critical final test for NBA Draft prospects, offering a chance to elevate their stock or face setbacks based on performance. While a single game can’t fully define a player’s potential, standout performances can significantly impact draft evaluations. This year’s tournament features several key prospects with opportunities to solidify their positions in the draft rankings. Cameron Boozer of Duke stands out as a top contender for the No. 1 pick. The 6-foot-9 freshman has averaged 22.5 points, 10 rebounds, and 4.2 assists while shooting 56.5% from the field, 40.9% from three, and 77.5% from the free-throw line. His ability to adapt to defenses—whether as a scorer, playmaker, or perimeter threat—has made him a standout. However, his path to the top of the draft depends on showcasing his competitiveness against elite opponents like Kansas and St. John’s. His success in high school and college, including ACC titles, highlights his potential, but NBA scouts will scrutinize how his low-post game holds up against NBA-level length. Darryn Peterson of Kansas faces challenges after a season marred by inconsistency. Despite averaging 18.7 points, his shooting efficiency has dipped to 37.8% from the field and 33.3% from three. His recent struggles, including missed games due to injury, have raised questions about his reliability. Yet, his high school dominance and potential matchup against Boozer in the Sweet 16 could reignite interest. Scouts will weigh his recent form against his prior reputation, making his tournament performance crucial for securing a top-10 spot. AJ Dybantsa of BYU has been the most consistent player in the class, averaging 25.9 points per game with elite shooting numbers.#darius_acuff_jr #aj_dybantsa #darryn_peterson #nba_draft #cameron_booz
NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament: 68 Names to Know Heading Into March Madness The NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament is set to begin, featuring a roster of standout players and coaches poised to make their mark. From freshman phenoms to veteran leaders, the 2026 field is packed with talent, offering fans a chance to witness historic moments. Here’s a breakdown of the key players and coaches to watch as the tournament kicks off. Cameron Boozer of Duke stands out as the most dominant player in college basketball this season. The 6-foot-9, 250-pound freshman averages 22.5 points, 10.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, leading the No. 1-seeded Blue Devils. His performance has positioned him as the favorite for the Wooden and Naismith Awards, with the potential to guide Duke to its first national championship in 11 years. Bruce Thornton of Ohio State is another standout, serving as the Buckeyes’ all-time leading scorer. His ability to score from beyond the arc and overpower smaller defenders makes him a game-changer. Thornton’s consistency over four years at his school highlights his durability and skill. Zuby Ejiofor of St. John’s is a key reason the Red Storm, a 5-seed, is considered a threat. The 6-foot-9 senior big man leads the team in scoring, rebounding, assists, and blocks. His physical style and finishing ability could carry St. John’s far in the tournament. Darryn Peterson of Kansas remains a mystery due to his inconsistent availability. While his potential as an NBA All-Star is evident in flashes, questions about his health and readiness for the Big Dance linger. A strong performance in the tournament could determine whether Kansas makes a deep run. Dominique Daniels Jr. of Cal Baptist is a scoring machine, averaging 23.2 points per game.#ncaa_men_s_basketball_tournament #darryn_peterson #cameron_boozers #bruce_thornton #zuby_ejiofor
Kansas vs. Houston 2026 Big 12 Tournament Semifinal Prediction The third-seeded Kansas Jayhawks (23-9, 12-6 Big 12) will face the second-seeded Houston Cougars (27-5, 14-4 Big 12) in the second semifinal of the 2026 Big 12 Tournament on Friday. The Jayhawks advanced after defeating TCU 78-72 in the quarterfinals, while the Cougars beat BYU 73-66. This marks their second matchup of the season, with Kansas securing a 69-56 victory on February 24. Darryn Peterson, a potential No. 1 overall NBA Draft pick, contributed 24 points in a season-high 37 minutes during Kansas’ quarterfinal win. The game will tip off at 9:30 p.m. ET at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City. Houston is listed as a 4.5-point favorite at DraftKings Sportsbook, with the total points over/under set at 139.5. The SportsLine Projection Model, which has demonstrated strong accuracy in college basketball predictions, simulated the matchup 10,000 times. The model’s analysis suggests the game will likely exceed the total points line, with a projected combined score of 142. Key player performances are highlighted in the model’s projections. Kansas is expected to have four players scoring 11.8 points or more, including Peterson, who is projected to tally 17.2 points. Houston’s Emanuel Sharp is predicted to lead the Cougars with 17 points, supported by three players scoring 12.4 points or more. The model’s simulations indicate a strong likelihood of the over line hitting, with 67% of outcomes surpassing 138.5 points. The model also identifies a clear favorite on the spread, though the specific side is only available through SportsLine. The analysis notes that one side of the spread is projected to win in over 50% of simulations, emphasizing the model’s confidence in its predictions.#t_mobile_center #darryn_peterson #kansas_jayhawks #houston_cougars #emmanuel_sharp
2026 NBA Draft Mock and Key Player Updates The latest 2026 NBA draft mock from ESPN’s Jeremy Woo ranks Kansas guard Darryn Peterson as the top pick, followed by BYU forward AJ Dybantsa, Duke big man Cameron Boozer, and UNC forward Caleb Wilson. Woo highlights Peterson’s elite scoring ability and Dybantsa’s versatility as a playmaker and shooter, while Boozer and Wilson are noted for their defensive presence and rebounding skills. The mock also includes Will Weaver, who has been named head coach of the Brisbane Kings in Australia, marking a significant move in international basketball. Injury and performance updates include Bam Adebayo’s return to form after a slow start, Tyrese Maxey’s recovery from a hamstring injury, and Victor Wembanyama’s continued dominance in the French league. Other notable mentions are Jalen Duren’s potential breakout season and the trade rumors surrounding Jalen Green. The article also touches on the 2026 salary cap projections, with key players like Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry expected to command higher salaries due to their market value. Additional sections cover the 2026 schedule changes, including the NBA’s expansion into new international markets, and the impact of veteran extensions on team rosters. The piece emphasizes the growing competition for top draft picks and the strategic moves teams are making to secure talent. The article concludes with insights into the 2026 free agency market, where stars like Kawhi Leonard and Giannis Antetokounmpo are likely to make significant moves, reshaping the league’s competitive landscape.#aj_dybantsa #darryn_peterson #cameron_boozers #jeremy_woos #unc_forwards
2026 NBA Mock Draft: BYU's AJ Dybantsa Goes No. 1 Ahead of Kansas' Darryn Peterson March Madness has arrived, offering the final opportunity for college basketball players to make an impression on NBA scouts before the 2026 draft. With the regular season concluded, the competition for the top pick remains fierce, centered around three standout prospects: AJ Dybantsa of BYU, Darryn Peterson of Kansas, and Cameron Boozer of Duke. Dybantsa, the leading scorer in college basketball, has emerged as the favorite for the No. 1 overall selection. Standing at 6-foot-9 with a wingspan exceeding 7 feet, he combines athleticism, a refined offensive game, and improved passing and finishing skills. His ability to create his own shot and elevate his playmaking has solidified his status as a top-tier talent. However, questions about his consistency and leadership remain, though his production this season has addressed many concerns. Peterson, meanwhile, remains a strong contender despite lingering doubts about his durability. His versatility as a playmaker, shooter, and on-ball threat, paired with his backcourt size and length, makes him a valuable asset. Yet, his availability during the season has raised questions about his long-term reliability. If selected, he could thrive in a role alongside Tyrese Haliburton in Indiana, where his offensive skills would complement the team’s dynamic backcourt. Boozer, the most impactful player in college basketball, faces skepticism about his ceiling. Despite his physicality, basketball IQ, and ability to elevate his team’s performance, many believe he may slip outside the top two. However, his track record of winning and lack of durability concerns position him as a strong candidate for a top-three pick.#aj_dybantsa #byu #darryn_peterson #cameron_boozers #kansas
