The Jayhawks' star is projected to be part of the NBA's next wave.
Darryn Peterson’s NBA comparison pushes Kansas star into generational talent conversation originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Darryn Peterson’s name is starting to surface in conversations usually reserved for the rarest prospects.
The Kansas shooting guard has been pushed into the generational talent debate after an NBA comparison that quickly grabbed leaguewide attention. In an ESPN poll of 20 NBA scouts and executives projecting the 2026 No. 1 overall pick, Peterson received 12 votes, edging BYU forward AJ Dybantsa, who drew eight.
One veteran scout told ESPN that Peterson’s offensive polish separates him from the field, comparing his shotmaking ability to Kobe Bryant.
“He makes things look so effortless, it’s unbelievable,” the scout said. “His shotmaking is unmatched. He’s the closest thing to Kobe I’ve seen since Kobe in terms of creating his own shot. He’s really special.”
NBA evaluators are also monitoring Peterson’s health. He missed Kansas’ game against Kansas State last weekend with an ankle sprain after earlier missing nine games with a hamstring injury.
Despite the interruptions, the 6-foot-6, 205-pound guard has been dominant. Peterson is averaging 21.6 points in just 27.2 minutes per game, along with 4.6 rebounds and 1.9 assists, while shooting 42% from 3-point range.
Another NBA executive summarized Peterson's abilities saying he “can be a championship-level shot creator in the NBA.”
That praise has only intensified anticipation for Saturday’s matchup between No. 13 BYU and No. 14 Kansas, the first collegiate meeting between the two projected top picks. ESPN reported that at least 32 NBA front-office personnel from 17 teams, including seven general managers, are expected to attend.
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Category: General Sports
