A dynamic scoring threat with a 6-10 wingspan, the Kansas standout challenges for the top spot by blending elite shot-making with the potential to become a lockdown defender.
It's not everyday that there are two number one overall draft prospects in the same draft class. However, the 2026 NBA Draft class is an outlier.
BYU wing AJ Dybantsa is the current favorite to be drafted number one overall by the Washington Wizards, but there's another elite prospect that is battling Dybantsa for number one pick status. That player being none other than Kansas guard Darryn Peterson.
While there are rumors of Washington trading their pick, they are still expected to take Dybantsa. However, there is a legitimate claim to make that Washington should take Peterson as he could develop into their primary guard of the future.
Kansas Guard Darryn Peterson (22) | © Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images6-5 | 199 lbs | 6-10 WS | Freshman
School: Kansas
Position: PG/SG
2025-26 Statistics: 20.2 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 1.6 APG, 43.8 FG%, 38.2 3P%
Peterson was a five star and the number one overall recruit in the class of 2025 on MaxPreps and 247Sports, and displayed that talent at the University of Kansas. Peterson possesses a rare blend of scoring talent, as he's one of the more polished offensive players to come out the draft in recent memory.
Peterson's offensive game is very three point dependent, as almost half of his field goal attempts came from behind the arc. However, what makes Peterson stand out from others as a shooter is his ability to consistently knock down the three ball. Additionally, Peterson has a very smooth and silky jump shot which is expected to translate nicely at the next level.
Outside from his elite shooting profile, Peterson has an explosive first step, elite handles and a strong change of direction. Peterson is often compared to some of the best scoring shooting guards in the league such as Devin Booker, Anthony Edwards and prime Bradley Beal due to his in-between game.
Peterson has all the offensive tools to be one of the league's best isolation scorers, but he can provide more to a team than just putting the ball in the basket.
While he only averaged 1.6 assists per game in college, Peterson has a high IQ and possesses strong playmaking skills which will be heavily depended on in the NBA. Peterson said it himself that he sees himself as a primary ball handler, and with his ability to get downhill and see the court, he could very well stick as a point guard at the next level.
While Peterson is the total package on the offensive end, he has a lanky and strong frame that could make him a legit two-way threat just like Anthony Edwards. Peterson has a gritty defensive motor and often gives great effort on that end of the ball which is extremely encouraging to see.
There's no denying that Peterson is the total package of what you'd want from a prospect, but the injury concerns are something to be wary of as he missed 11 games this season due to muscle cramping, hamstring issues and illness.
At the end of the day, Washington is in a position where they can't go wrong between Dybantsa and Peterson. However, Peterson's long-term health concerns will play the main factor if he doesn't get drafted first overall.
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