Darryn Peterson is a freshman guard for the Kansas Jayhawks who has quickly become one of college basketball’s most talked-about young stars. The 19-year-old has drawn national attention during his first season in Lawrence, especially during Kansas’ NCAA Tournament run. Behind the rising scorer is a close-knit family that has supported his basketball journey from the very beginning. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Darryn Peterson’s Parents Helped Shape His Basketball Journey
Peterson was born on January 17, 2007, in Canton, Ohio, according to Yahoo Sports. His parents are Darryl Peterson II and Natatia Peterson.
Basketball has long been part of the family. Peterson’s father played at both the high school and college levels, which helped expose Peterson to the game at an early age.
Growing up around basketball helped him develop skills and discipline while learning the work ethic needed to compete at higher levels.
The Kansas guard has credited his parents for helping keep him focused on both athletics and academics.
“How I got to where I am today is really just my mom and my dad,” Peterson said to Proscpective Insight in 2023. “They keep me hungry and humble.”
His parents continue to support his development as he builds his reputation as one of college basketball’s top young prospects.
2. His Father Played College Basketball at Akron
Peterson’s father had a notable basketball career before his son emerged as a national prospect.
Darryl Peterson II played at Western Hills High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he earned All-Ohio honorable mention honors and was named to the All-Cincinnati City Conference first team.
He later played four seasons at the University of Akron.
During his college career, Peterson II scored more than 1,100 points across nearly 90 games. His total of 1,156 career points ranks among Akron’s notable scorers.
The experience helped provide guidance and insight for Peterson as he developed his own game.
3. Darryn Peterson’s Freshman Season Has Been Impacted by Injuries
Peterson has shown star potential during his freshman season, but injuries — particularly cramping — have limited his availability.
The Kansas guard has missed multiple games during the season while working through those issues. When he has played, however, Peterson has continued to demonstrate why many analysts consider him a future NBA prospect.
He has averaged 19.3 points per game while shooting 42.3 percent from three-point range.
Kansas head coach Bill Self explained that the program has worked closely with Peterson’s family when determining whether he should play.
“We’ve talked about this. We’re in agreement with the family that he should not play until he feels good,” Self said via Sports Illustrated. “We’re in agreement. But I’m not inside his head or his body that I can determine if he feels good enough or not. That’s up to him.”
Self added that Peterson is eager to return.
“He wants to be out there. He’s just not ready.”
4. His Family Includes Multiple Athletes
Athletics run throughout Peterson’s extended family.
His uncle, Nate West, played college basketball at Goshen College.
Peterson’s older brother, Darryl Peterson III, chose football instead of basketball. He played at Archbishop Hoban High School and later continued his career at the University of Wisconsin.
Growing up in an athletic environment helped Peterson develop competitive instincts and a strong understanding of sports.
5. Darryn Peterson Remains Close With His Parents
Peterson continues to maintain a close relationship with his parents as his basketball career grows.
When Peterson evaluated college programs before committing to Kansas in 2024, his parents helped guide the process and supported him during official visits.
The freshman guard has said that spending time with family remains one of the ways he relaxes away from basketball.
Their continued support remains an important part of Peterson’s journey as he develops into one of college basketball’s rising stars and a potential future NBA player.
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