Kansas Stuns No. 1 Arizona After Star Freshman Ruled Out

Jayhawks rally to win 82-78 despite losing leading scorer Darryn Peterson to illness just before tipoff

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Just one hour before the highly anticipated matchup between No. 9 Kansas and unbeaten No. 1 Arizona, star freshman Darryn Peterson told the coaching staff he could not play due to flu-like symptoms. Despite the late scratch of their leading scorer, the Jayhawks responded with composure, leaning on unexpected production from Flory Bidunga, Melvin Council Jr., and Bryson Tiller to secure an 82-78 upset victory and hand the Wildcats their first loss of the season.

Why it matters

This game highlighted Kansas' depth and resilience, as the Jayhawks were able to overcome the late loss of their top scorer and defeat the nation's top-ranked team. The win also ended Arizona's perfect start to the season and stood as one of the most notable upsets of the college basketball year.

The details

With Peterson ruled out just before tipoff, Kansas had to quickly adjust its game plan. The Jayhawks absorbed an early deficit but stayed within reach, thanks to strong performances from Bidunga (23 points, 10 rebounds), Council Jr. (23 points), and Tiller (18 points). Kansas took its first lead midway through the second half and executed down the stretch to secure the 82-78 victory over the previously unbeaten Wildcats.

  • One hour before tipoff, Peterson told the coaching staff he could not play due to illness.
  • Kansas and Arizona tipped off at Allen Fieldhouse on February 10, 2026.

The players

Darryn Peterson

A star freshman for the Kansas Jayhawks and a projected top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, Peterson was ruled out just before the game due to flu-like symptoms.

Flory Bidunga

A key contributor for Kansas, Bidunga stepped up with 23 points and 10 rebounds in the upset win over Arizona.

Melvin Council Jr.

Also a standout performer for the Jayhawks, Council Jr. matched Bidunga's 23 points and hit crucial free throws late in the game.

Bryson Tiller

Tiller added 18 points to help steady the Kansas lineup in the absence of their leading scorer, Peterson.

Kurtis Townsend

An assistant coach for the Kansas Jayhawks, Townsend was the one who spoke with Peterson before the game about his inability to play.

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What they’re saying

“One hour before tip it seems Darryn Peterson tells Asst. Coach Kurtis Townsend he can't go tonight.”

— Harold R. Kuntz, FOX4 News Kansas City reporter (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

The Jayhawks will look to build on this signature win as they continue their conference schedule. Peterson's status will be monitored closely, with the illness not expected to be long-term.

The takeaway

Kansas' ability to rally together and defeat the nation's top-ranked team despite the late loss of their leading scorer demonstrated the team's depth, composure, and resolve. The win will stand as one of the Jayhawks' most impressive victories of the season.