Key moments
In a significant development for the Kansas Jayhawks, freshman star Darryn Peterson has reported feeling healthy ahead of their NCAA Tournament matchup against the St. John’s Red Storm on March 22, 2026. Peterson, who recently scored 28 points in a victory over Cal Baptist, is looking to make a substantial impact in the tournament.
Peterson’s performance against Cal Baptist marked a milestone, as it was the highest point total by a Kansas freshman in their NCAA Tournament debut. This achievement underscores his potential, especially as he averages 20.5 points per game with a shooting percentage of 44% this season. His contributions have been pivotal in helping Kansas secure a 24-10 record this season.
Despite his impressive statistics, Peterson has acknowledged that he has been dealing with a “body situation” that has affected his play. However, he expressed optimism about his current health, stating, “I’m glad I’m feeling healthy now.” This sentiment is crucial for Kansas, as Peterson’s health directly impacts the team’s offensive ceiling and shot distribution.
The upcoming game against St. John’s, which boasts a strong 29-6 record this season, will take place at Viejas Arena in San Diego, California, starting at 5:15 p.m. ET. The matchup is highly anticipated, especially considering that Kansas and St. John’s have a historical rivalry, having faced off in the NCAA tournament previously, with Kansas winning the 1952 national championship game.
Rick Pitino, the head coach of St. John’s, has also commented on Peterson’s potential, noting, “He gets to the foul line, he’s got great size, got a beautiful looking jump shot with great arc.” Such endorsements highlight the expectations surrounding Peterson as he prepares for this critical game.
As the tournament progresses, the Jayhawks will rely heavily on Peterson’s ability to perform at a high level. His recent acknowledgment of overcoming his physical challenges, stating, “It’s hard when I was going through my body situation, but now I can play hard and have more fun out there,” reflects his determination to contribute significantly to his team’s success.
With the NCAA Tournament underway, the stakes are high for both Peterson and the Kansas Jayhawks. The team’s performance against St. John’s will be closely watched, as it could set the tone for their tournament run. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how Peterson’s health and performance will influence the outcome of this pivotal matchup.
