UPDATE: Kansas Jayhawks’ star player, Darryn Peterson, is on the verge of a comeback as he continues to recover from injury, according to head coach Bill Self. This news follows the Jayhawks’ 69-59 victory over Notre Dame on November 20, 2023, during the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas.
Peterson, a projected No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA draft, has not played since the team’s loss to North Carolina on November 7. However, Self confirmed that the 6-foot-6 wing is making significant progress in his recovery. “He’s running, he’s cutting. He’s doing more every day,” Self stated, underscoring Peterson’s commitment to return as soon as possible.
While no specific timetable was provided, Self emphasized the team’s approach is to evaluate Peterson every few days. “It’s week to week. That may be too long. It’s more of every three or four days, we will re-evaluate and see,” he added.
In Peterson’s absence, the Jayhawks have managed a solid record of 3-1, thanks in part to stellar performances from teammates like Flory Bidunga, who contributed 18 points, nine rebounds, and five assists in the game against Notre Dame.
The urgency to get Peterson back into the lineup is palpable. Bryson Tiller, who scored 17 points against Notre Dame, expressed the team’s resolve, stating, “There are no excuses. We definitely have to figure out who we are without him. He’ll be back soon for sure.”
However, the Jayhawks face further challenges as senior guard Jayden Dawson suffered an injury during warmups, limiting him to just four minutes of play. X-rays are pending, and Self indicated that Dawson is “doubtful” for the remaining games in Las Vegas. “It was disappointing because we’re kind of short-handed right now,” Self remarked.
As the Jayhawks prepare to face Syracuse on November 21, 2023, all eyes are on Peterson’s potential return, which could significantly impact the team’s performance moving forward. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how quickly he can return to the court and help lead his team through a crucial stretch of the season.
Stay tuned for more updates as these developments unfold.
