Darryn Peterson Season Ends on St. John's Buzzer-Beater, What Fans Are Saying About Kansas Star

Darryn Peterson's 2025-26 season—and surely his only college campaign before he heads to the NBA—ended in the second round of the NCAA men's tournament on Sunday, thanks to a game-winning layup from St. John's guard Dylan Darling.

Peterson put up 21 points and four blocks in the game but struggled at times with the Red Storm's stifling defense, shooting just 5-of-15 from the field with three turnovers and no assists.

In two tournament games he averaged 24.5 points, 0.5 assists and 2.0 turnovers, shooting 41 percent from the field and 36.8 percent from three.

There's little doubt that Peterson can score the rock, but his NCAA tournament showing had some fans doubting his NBA upside:

Granted, Peterson is hardly the first lottery pick that couldn't lead his team to NBA glory. While NBA scouts and front-office personnel may have some questions about his odd availability this season, they'll also be hard-pressed to ignore his 20.1 points per game as a true freshman or his 38.2 percent shooting from three.

In a very strong draft class, however, it's fair to question if he'll be the first player off the board. AJ Dybantsa appears to be the frontrunner in that regard, Cam Boozer is a lock to be a top-three selection and Darius Acuff Jr. is surely climbing up draft boards.

It would be stunning if Peterson wasn't a top-three selection as well, but it's hard to argue that he made the strongest case on Sunday.