Mandy
The head coach of the Kansas Jayhawks, Bill Self, has made it clear that freshman standout Darryn Peterson can silence critics in the simplest way possible — by staying on the court and finishing games.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, Self acknowledged the national conversation surrounding Peterson’s limited appearances this season. The talented 19-year-old guard has missed multiple games and exited others early due to injuries and illness. As a result, some analysts have questioned whether Peterson is protecting himself ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft.
Self believes there is only one real solution.
“There is a way to change the narrative. Play. Finish,” Self said. “If his body allows him to, fantastic. If it doesn’t, then people will talk again the next game.”
He emphasized that arguing against criticism will not shift opinions at any level — local or national.
Limited Availability Raises Questions
Injuries and Early Exits
So far this season, Peterson has played in 15 of Kansas’ 26 games. However, he has left three of those contests before the final buzzer. Most recently, he exited Wednesday’s 81–69 victory over Oklahoma State after logging just 18 minutes.
Throughout the season, Peterson has dealt with:
- Hamstring injury
- Quad strain
- Ankle injury
- Flu-like symptoms
- Cramping
While the absences have medical explanations, the pattern has led some observers to speculate about long-term motives — particularly his status as a potential No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft.
Bill Self Pushes Back on Draft Protection Rumors
Coach Calls Narrative ‘100% False’
Self firmly rejected suggestions that Peterson is avoiding contact or preserving himself for professional opportunities.
“He hasn’t finished games. The reasons why they say he hasn’t finished games is 100% false,” Self stated. He added that while he cannot confirm every rumor is entirely inaccurate, the dominant narrative circulating publicly does not reflect reality.
Still, Self admitted that public speculation cannot be controlled. The only effective way to quiet critics is through performance and availability.
Elite Production When Available
Despite limited appearances, Peterson’s impact on the court has been undeniable.
In his 15 games, the freshman guard is averaging:
| Stat Category | Average |
|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 20.0 |
| 3-Point Shooting | 43% |
| Season High | 32 Points |
Even in his shortened appearance against Oklahoma State, Peterson scored 23 points, hitting 6 of 10 three-point attempts.
His best performance came in a thrilling 104–100 overtime win over TCU, where he exploded for a season-high 32 points. That level of scoring ability is exactly why NBA scouts view him as one of the top prospects in the 2026 draft class.
Self Praises Peterson’s Work Ethic
Beyond statistics, Self strongly defended Peterson’s commitment to the game.
“I don’t know that we’ve had a guy that studies the game, has prepared himself for this more than Darryn Peterson,” Self said. “He loves ball. He can’t get enough.”
According to the Kansas coach, Peterson spends countless hours refining his skills outside official team practices. Self described him as one of the most dedicated individual workers the program has seen.
This endorsement challenges the idea that Peterson lacks competitive drive or is prioritizing professional aspirations over college success.
Critical Stretch Ahead for Kansas
Opportunity to Change Perception
With five regular-season games remaining, plus the Big 12 Tournament and the NCAA Tournament approaching, Peterson has a major opportunity to reshape public opinion.
The Jayhawks’ upcoming schedule includes:
- Cincinnati (14–12)
- No. 2 Houston (23–3)
- No. 4 Arizona (24–2)
Strong performances in these high-profile matchups — especially if Kansas makes a deep postseason run — could shift the national conversation entirely.
A potential national championship push would give Peterson the platform to demonstrate resilience, durability, and leadership on the biggest stage.
The debate surrounding Darryn Peterson’s availability continues, but Bill Self’s message is straightforward: the only way to change the narrative is to play and finish games. While injuries and illness have limited Peterson’s time on the court, his production when healthy proves he is one of college basketball’s elite talents.
With crucial games ahead and the postseason looming, Peterson has a clear opportunity to silence critics, strengthen his NBA draft stock, and help Kansas chase championship glory. Ultimately, performance — not speculation — will define his story.