UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, freshman Darryn Peterson led the No. 11 Kansas Jayhawks to a crucial 64-61 victory over No. 13 Texas Tech on February 5, 2024, in Lubbock, Texas. Peterson’s stunning performance, capped off by two late 3-pointers, proved vital as he played a season-high 35 minutes and scored 19 points.
Peterson’s clutch shooting came at a pivotal moment, with the first tying shot from the right corner hitting the net with just 1:20 left in the game. He followed that with the game-winning basket from the left wing just 44 seconds before the final buzzer. “Coach Self told me to go make a play,” Peterson said. “I trusted the work, so those shots I feel like I should make.”
After missing time this season due to injuries, including an ankle issue that sidelined him for a win over Kansas State, Peterson’s resilience shone through. Earlier, he had scored 18 points in the first half against then-No. 13 BYU but was unable to finish due to cramping. His average now stands at an impressive 21.1 points per game.
Jayhawks coach Bill Self praised Peterson’s innate ability to perform under pressure, stating, “He’s got something that I guess you’re born with and can’t teach. He’s got just an unbelievable ability to raise his level when it counts the most.” Peterson’s late-game heroics secured Kansas’s sixth consecutive win and solidified his status as a top prospect for the upcoming NBA draft.
As the season progresses, all eyes are on Peterson, who has battled through injuries and has shown remarkable determination. His performance against Texas Tech not only highlights his potential but also sets the stage for the Jayhawks as they aim for a strong finish in the Big 12 Conference.
Next up, Kansas (17-5, 7-2 Big 12) will look to maintain their momentum in their upcoming games, while Texas Tech (16-6, 6-3) will seek to rebound from this narrow defeat. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Peterson can continue this late-season surge.
