URGENT UPDATE: Kansas star freshman Darryn Peterson has been ruled out for tonight’s crucial matchup against the UConn Huskies due to a lingering hamstring injury, the university confirmed just moments ago. This marks the seventh consecutive game Peterson will miss, raising concerns for the Jayhawks as they face off against a formidable opponent.
Coach Bill Self made the announcement earlier today, stating, “Darryn is not going to play tonight. He is very close. He has worked his butt off, but he is still not 100 percent. He is day-to-day.” The news comes at a critical time as Peterson had been averaging an impressive 21.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists in his first two games of the season before succumbing to injury.
While Peterson’s absence is significant, the Jayhawks have remarkably adapted, winning five of their last six games. The only setback during this stretch was a close loss to Duke at Madison Square Garden. Recently, they triumphed in Las Vegas at the Players Era Championship, securing an 81-76 victory over Tennessee in the third-place game.
In response to Peterson’s injury, Coach Self has opted for a larger lineup, featuring 6-foot-11 Bryson Tiller alongside Flory Bidunga in the paint. Tiller has stepped up impressively, averaging 9.2 points and 7.2 rebounds as a starter. Furthermore, guard Jamari McDowell has been elevated to the starting lineup, contributing valuable shooting and length on the perimeter. McDowell has showcased his skills by hitting two 3-pointers in each of his last two games as a starter.
The absence of Peterson, widely regarded as a frontrunner for the No. 1 pick in the upcoming June NBA Draft, poses a challenge for Kansas. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Jayhawks manage without their star player.
Stay tuned for updates on Peterson’s recovery and Kansas’ performance against UConn tonight. The game is set to tip off shortly, and every moment counts as the Jayhawks aim to maintain their momentum amid this adversity.