Kansas G Darryn Peterson declares for NBA draft

Field Level Media|published: 04/24/2026, 12:37pm EDT

Jan 24, 2026; Columbia, Missouri, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Darryn Peterson (22) reacts after scoring during the first half against the BYU Cougars at Mizzou Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

Kansas guard Darryn Peterson announced Friday that he is leaving school after just one season and 24 games to enter the 2026 NBA Draft.

He is expected to be a top pick in the draft in June. Peterson, BYU's AJ Dybantsa and Cameron Boozer of Duke have been tagged in multiple mock drafts as the three top NBA prospects.

Dybantsa announced Thursday that he is putting his name into the draft. Boozer has yet to commit, but it is widely expected that he will not return to the Blue Devils.

Peterson, 19, made his draft announcement via social media.

pic.twitter.com/dw2Gu9mb2d
— Darryn Peterson (@Darryn_P1) April 24, 2026

"After much reflection and prayer, I am proud to announce my decision to declare for the NBA draft," he wrote to conclude his statement. "This has been my lifelong dream, and I am excited for the future. Rock chalk forever!"

The 6-foot-6 Peterson averaged 20.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 29.0 minutes per game. He made 63 of 165 shots (38.2%) from 3-point range.

He suffered from cramping and hamstring issues throughout the season, forcing him to miss 11 of the Jayhawks' 35 games. He departed some games early, leading some fans to take to social media throughout the season to question his effort and attitude.

--Field Level Media