Kansas Star Darryn Peterson Faces Criticism for Missed Games

ESPN analyst Seth Greenberg defends criticism of Peterson's absences, while coach Bill Self sees positives in team's growth without him.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Kansas star Darryn Peterson has faced significant criticism from fans and analysts for leaving games early and missing games due to various injuries and illnesses this season. ESPN's Seth Greenberg justified the criticism, saying Peterson's unexplained absences are a "problem." However, Kansas coach Bill Self sees a silver lining, noting that the team has grown and improved during Peterson's frequent absences.

Why it matters

Peterson is a key player for the No. 14 Kansas Jayhawks, and his absences have impacted the team. The criticism highlights the expectations and scrutiny placed on star players, while Self's comments suggest the team may be better positioned for success despite Peterson's struggles with availability.

The details

Peterson has missed several games this season due to an ankle sprain, hamstring injury, and flu-like symptoms. In seven of his 17 games played, he has not played more than 25 minutes due to persistent cramping issues. Despite the criticism, Peterson helped the Jayhawks defeat the No. 5 Houston Cougars 69-56 on Monday, playing 30 minutes and scoring 14 points.

  • On February 24, 2026, ESPN analyst Seth Greenberg criticized Peterson's unexplained absences from games.
  • On February 24, 2026, Kansas coach Bill Self acknowledged the team's growth during Peterson's frequent absences.

The players

Darryn Peterson

A star player for the Kansas Jayhawks who has faced criticism for leaving games early and missing games due to various injuries and illnesses.

Bill Self

The head coach of the Kansas Jayhawks, who sees a positive in his team's growth during Peterson's frequent absences.

Seth Greenberg

An ESPN analyst who justified the criticism of Peterson's unexplained absences from games.

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What they’re saying

“It's not unfair, it's reality. Darryn Peterson is a terrific player and I think he loves the game of basketball and he's a special talent. But when you play against BYU and you dominate the game in the first half and you walk on and take yourself out of the second half without any reason or rhyme, it's a problem.”

— Seth Greenberg, ESPN Analyst (Get Up)

“Our guys have gotten so much better since the start. And, even playing without [Darryn Peterson] so much, I think in many ways, it's forced our other guys to grow up. Our ceiling is still well in front of us.”

— Bill Self, Kansas Head Coach (Postgame News Conference)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.