Kansas Hands Arizona Its First Loss Without Star Freshman

Jayhawks win 40th straight home game under Bill Self despite absence of Darryn Peterson

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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The No. 9 Kansas Jayhawks defeated the previously undefeated No. 1 Arizona Wildcats 82-78 on Monday night, despite the absence of star freshman Darryn Peterson due to flu-like symptoms. Led by strong performances from Melvin Council Jr., Flory Bidunga, and Bryson Tiller, the Jayhawks overcame a halftime deficit to secure the victory, extending their home winning streak to 40 games under head coach Bill Self.

Why it matters

This win is significant for the Jayhawks, as it keeps them in the hunt for the Big 12 title, just one game behind co-leaders Arizona and Houston. The loss also marks Arizona's first defeat of the season, shaking up the national rankings and the race for the top seed in the NCAA Tournament.

The details

Without Peterson, the Jayhawks relied on a three-headed monster of Council, Bidunga, and Tiller to take down the Wildcats. Council struggled early but attacked the rim relentlessly in the second half, finishing with 23 points. Bidunga dominated inside with 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks, while Tiller scored 14 of his 18 points in the first half to keep Kansas within reach. The Jayhawks' 17 offensive rebounds and 19 second-chance points proved crucial in their comeback victory.

  • The game was played on Monday, February 10, 2026.
  • Kansas has now won 40 straight home games under Bill Self's watch.

The players

Darryn Peterson

A star freshman for the Arizona Wildcats who missed the game due to flu-like symptoms.

Melvin Council Jr.

A key player for the Kansas Jayhawks who struggled early but led the team's second-half comeback, finishing with 23 points and 6 assists.

Flory Bidunga

The sophomore center for the Kansas Jayhawks who dominated inside with 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks.

Bryson Tiller

A starter for the Kansas Jayhawks who scored 14 of his 18 points in the first half to keep his team in the game.

Motiejus Krivas

The 7-foot-2 center for the Arizona Wildcats who had 6 blocks but couldn't stop the Jayhawks' relentless attack on the rim.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The Jayhawks will look to continue their strong play and keep pace with Arizona and Houston atop the Big 12 standings. Their next game is on Saturday against a tough conference opponent.

The takeaway

This win showcases the depth and resilience of the Kansas Jayhawks, who were able to overcome the absence of their star freshman and defeat the previously undefeated Arizona Wildcats on their home court. The victory keeps the Jayhawks firmly in the hunt for the Big 12 title and a top seed in the NCAA Tournament.