Sacramento may have watched a slow start then scare on the side of Kansas. Here's an overview.
The Sacramento Kings had the opportunity to spend Friday night watching a potential future member during March Madness.
Darryn Peterson of Kansas got his first taste of the NCAA Tournament inside Viejas Arena in San Diego. He played in front of a near sold out crowd. Plus in front of two rabid fanbases even from the Cal Baptist side.
Friday's game served as a new barometer into determining his NBA Draft stock. Which includes if the Kings should take him now more than ever.
Peterson may have catapulted himself higher following BYU getting bounced by Texas, which ended the brilliant freshman campaign of AJ Dybantsa (another possible future Kings player).
But judging from Friday, is Peterson now worth keeping on the NBA Draft board? Time to weigh in.
Peterson showed strong composure
Roundtable was on hand inside the venue and capped off the night watching Peterson.
For what it's worth, fans and analysts should be talking about his composure more.
Peterson struggled out the gate early. He noticeably rushed his shots in the name of setting the tone. But he immediately pivoted back to a calm demeanor.
The end result is him showing the same attack mode he's displayed at KU. He overcame his 0-for-6 start to still finish with 28 points. This time on an even larger stage.
The freshman even showed zero panic when Cal Baptist started to go on a late run, outscoring the Jayhawks 18-4 to close out the second half.
Was Peterson cramping?
It's rather odd that this is a huge deal.
Players who go full throttle will feel their body tighten. Fans should be more concerned on if they mentally check out because of the cramp.
Peterson drew contact and fell hard on occasion. But he stayed and kept battling in the end. It's clear Kansas does so much better offensively when he's on the floor.
Plus even after that slow start, Peterson swished a buzzer beater to close out the first half.
Should the Kings consider Peterson now?
Here's an idea if you're Scott Perry and Doug Christie: Hold off until after Sunday to start making that decision.
Why? Because Rick Pitino and the St. John's Red Storm are next.
The Big East power presents the length and physical defense that can beat up Peterson. St. John's also defends the three at a high consistent rate.
But if Peterson drops 30+ points on the Storm, then the conversation must shift to considering Peterson as the top pick for Sacramento.
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