UPDATE: Kansas freshman star Darryn Peterson exited the game against NC State due to tightness in his hamstring, raising concerns just as the 19th-ranked Jayhawks secured a thrilling 77-76 overtime victory. The incident occurred late in regulation, specifically at the 2:15 mark, with Kansas holding a two-point lead.
Head coach Bill Self reported that Peterson, a standout guard at 6-foot-6, felt tightness and made the decision to leave the game. “I think he was getting tight,” Self said. “He said he needed to come out.” This precautionary move comes after Peterson recently returned from a seven-game absence due to a previous hamstring strain.
Peterson’s performance prior to his exit was impactful; he recorded 17 points, five rebounds, and four assists in just 31 minutes of play, marking a season high for him in his four games back. His return to the lineup was only six days ago, where he logged 23 minutes against Missouri after missing most of the exhibition season due to cramps.
Fans and teammates alike are holding their breath as the team awaits further medical evaluations. Self noted the ongoing nature of Peterson’s hamstring issues, highlighting that he has experienced similar tightness throughout the season. “I was happy that he got that far, that deep into the game,” Self added, emphasizing the importance of monitoring Peterson’s health moving forward.
This latest setback raises questions about Peterson’s status as he is viewed as a potential top pick in the upcoming NBA draft if he opts for a one-and-done career. The Jayhawks will need their star player healthy as they navigate their challenging schedule ahead.
As developments unfold, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for updates regarding Peterson’s condition, as his ability to contribute to the team is crucial for Kansas’s aspirations this season. The immediate focus will be on how the coaching staff manages his recovery process and what implications this has for future games.
For now, the Kansas Jayhawks celebrate their hard-fought win while keeping a close eye on the health of one of their brightest stars. Stay tuned for more updates.
