Kansas star Darryn Peterson says he ‘might run It back’ for another season

Kansas may be heading into the postseason, but a comment from freshman star Darryn Peterson has already given Jayhawks fans something to think about beyond March.

After Kansas defeated Kansas State 104-85 on Senior Day at Allen Fieldhouse, Peterson delivered one of his most memorable performances of the season. The freshman guard scored 27 points while adding five rebounds, four assists and two steals, showing the type of all-around impact that made him one of the most highly touted recruits in the country.

But it was what Peterson said after the game that quickly caught attention across the college basketball world.

“I love Kansas. I love everything about being here and my team,” Peterson said. “Maybe one more year. I might run it back.”

For a player widely projected to be a top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, even hinting at the possibility of returning to college is enough to spark conversation.

Peterson finding his stride at the perfect time

Saturday’s win over Kansas State may have been Peterson’s most encouraging outing of the season.

The freshman has dealt with several health setbacks during his first year in Lawrence, missing 11 games while battling injuries to his quad, hamstring and ankle. Even when he has played, he has often looked less than fully healthy.

Against the Wildcats, however, Peterson looked explosive and confident. Kansas head coach Bill Self even noted after the game that it was the best Peterson has moved all season.

That could be a major development for a Kansas team preparing for both the Big 12 Tournament and the NCAA Tournament.

When Peterson is fully healthy, he has the ability to take over games offensively while also creating opportunities for teammates. Kansas may need that version of him to make a deep postseason run.

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AJ Dybantsa sparked a similar conversation

Peterson is not the only freshman superstar who has recently floated the idea of staying in college.

Earlier this week, BYU standout AJ Dybantsa also raised eyebrows when he suggested he might consider remaining in school longer than expected. Dybantsa is widely projected as a potential No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, making the comment even more surprising.

The possibility of elite prospects returning for another season has become slightly more realistic in the NIL era, where top players can earn significant money while still competing in college.

Still, history suggests players projected near the top of the draft rarely delay the jump to the NBA.

Kansas fans will be watching closely

For now, Peterson’s focus remains on helping Kansas make a run in March. The Jayhawks closed the regular season with a convincing victory over Kansas State and now turn to the postseason.

But Peterson’s comment was enough to ignite the imagination of Kansas fans.

If the freshman star truly considered returning for another year in Lawrence, it would instantly reshape the outlook for the program next season.

Whether that possibility becomes reality or simply remains a fun what-if, Peterson’s words ensured one thing.

Jayhawks fans will be paying very close attention.

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