Kansas Basketball Star Reflects on Freshman Season

Darryn Peterson looks back after March Madness loss

Mar. 29, 2026 at 9:27am

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Kansas basketball player Darryn Peterson spoke to reporters following his team's loss in the NCAA tournament against St. John's. The 19-year-old freshman reflected on his first year with the Jayhawks, focusing on the lessons learned and his determination to improve for the future.

Why it matters

As one of the top recruits in the country, Peterson's performance and development will be closely watched by Kansas fans and NBA scouts. His reflections provide insight into the mindset of a young player navigating the challenges of college basketball.

The details

Peterson, a 6'8" forward, had a solid freshman campaign, averaging 12.5 points and 6.2 rebounds per game. However, his season ended in disappointment as Kansas fell to St. John's in the NCAA tournament. In the postgame press conference, Peterson discussed the sting of the loss, saying 'I don't believe in what could have been, it is how it is.' He emphasized the importance of learning from the experience and using it to fuel his offseason improvement.

  • Kansas' season ended on March 26, 2026 with the loss to St. John's.
  • Peterson spoke to reporters on March 27, 2026, the day after the tournament defeat.

The players

Darryn Peterson

A 19-year-old freshman forward for the Kansas Jayhawks basketball team, one of the top recruits in the country.

Kansas Jayhawks

The men's basketball team of the University of Kansas, a perennial NCAA tournament contender.

St. John's

The men's basketball team of St. John's University, which defeated Kansas in the 2026 NCAA tournament.

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What they’re saying

“I don't believe in what could have been, it is how it is.”

— Darryn Peterson, Kansas Basketball Player

What’s next

Peterson will now focus on the offseason, working to improve his game and prepare for his sophomore season with the Jayhawks.

The takeaway

Despite the disappointing end to his freshman campaign, Darryn Peterson's reflective and determined mindset suggests a bright future ahead. As one of the top young talents in college basketball, his continued development will be closely watched by Kansas fans and NBA scouts alike.