UPDATE: The Kansas Jayhawks delivered a commanding performance, defeating Texas A&M-Corpus Christi 77-46 on Tuesday night, despite the absence of star freshman Darryn Peterson. The nation’s top recruit was a surprising late scratch due to a tight hamstring, raising concerns just before the game.
Head coach Bill Self revealed that Peterson reported discomfort at practice earlier in the day. “We didn’t anticipate this, but at the end of practice, he said it was tight. So I told him no reason to go,” Self stated in a press conference. The decision was described as precautionary, emphasizing the team’s cautious approach to Peterson’s health as they gear up for a challenging schedule ahead.
Kohl Rosario stepped up in Peterson’s absence, scoring 16 points and energizing the team with a series of highlight-reel alley-oop dunks and timely three-pointers. Flory Bidunga contributed 12 points, while Bryson Tiller and Tre White each added 11 points. The Jayhawks, now 2-1 this season, showcased their defensive prowess by limiting the Islanders to just 32% shooting, extending their streak to 22 consecutive nonconference home wins.
Peterson, who scored 21 points in his debut against Green Bay and 22 points against North Carolina, has been dealing with cramping issues early this season. “It’s frustrating for him, I’m sure,” Self acknowledged. “And it’s frustrating as a coach, too, because we don’t know from day to day how he’s going to be. It’s a long season, and he’s too valuable to put out there and create a situation out of something that shouldn’t be a situation.”
The game began sluggishly for the Jayhawks without their star player, but they quickly regained momentum, leading by 38-18 at halftime. A decisive 14-0 run in the second half sealed the deal against a program that made the NCAA tournament just two years prior.
Looking ahead, Kansas faces Princeton on Saturday, followed by a gauntlet of high-profile matchups against No. 4 Duke, Notre Dame, Syracuse, No. 3 UConn, and Missouri before entering Big 12 play. Coach Self expressed optimism about Peterson’s return, stating, “I look forward to seeing him practice Thursday; at least we think that’s the case.”
Fans will be eagerly watching to see if Peterson can return to the court in time for the upcoming challenges, as the Jayhawks aim to build on their recent success and maintain their status as a formidable contender this season.
