Kansas Stars Peterson, Dybantsa Downplay NBA Draft Buzz

UPDATE: Kansas guard Darryn Peterson and BYU wing AJ Dybantsa are at the forefront of the 2026 NBA Draft conversation, but both stars are focused solely on their college performance. Speaking at the Big 12 media day on October 25, 2023, Peterson, a five-star recruit projected as the No. 1 pick, emphasized his commitment to helping the Jayhawks win this season.

“I handle it by not even paying any attention to it,” Peterson told ESPN, confirming his dedication to winning games rather than entertaining draft speculation. The 6-foot-6 guard was named the Big 12 preseason freshman of the year and made a unanimous selection to the all-Big 12 preseason first team.

Meanwhile, Dybantsa, a 6-foot-9 standout projected to go second overall, is also keeping his focus on the court. Recently named to the Associated Press preseason All-America team, he built momentum following a stellar performance where he scored 30 points in a close 90-89 exhibition loss against Nebraska. Dybantsa reflected on the experience, stating, “I learned a lot… getting to learn the away crowds, how away games are.”

Despite the rising buzz around both players potentially battling for the No. 1 pick, Dybantsa stressed the importance of teamwork. “I think me and [Peterson] probably have similar mindsets,” he said. “We’re really trying to prove ourselves as college players.”

Peterson reiterated his commitment to leadership, saying, “I lead by example and I’m trying to do all the right stuff, both on and off the court.” His focus remains on adjusting to college life and guiding his teammates through the season.

The spotlight also turned to another promising prospect during the event. UCF coach Johnny Dawkins arrived in Kansas City after his team’s exhibition loss to Duke, immediately highlighting freshman Cameron Boozer, projected as the No. 3 pick. Dawkins praised Boozer’s performance, noting he scored 33 points in that game and possesses undeniable talent. “He’s terrific. He’s a great basketball player and he still has room to grow,” Dawkins remarked.

As the basketball season heats up, all eyes will be on Peterson, Dybantsa, and Boozer as they navigate their college careers with NBA aspirations on the horizon. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these young athletes perform, particularly as they aim to establish their legacies in the Big 12 and beyond.

Stay tuned for more updates as the college basketball season progresses and the draft conversation intensifies.