
Darryn Peterson Shines with 32 Points as Kansas Stages Thrilling Comeback Victory
Top NBA prospect Darryn Peterson delivered a spectacular 32-point performance, leading No. 22 Kansas to an electrifying comeback win over TCU in overtime. The Jayhawks overcame a 16-point deficit in an inspiring display of resilience and teamwork.
In a game that will be remembered as one of the season's most thrilling moments, freshman phenom Darryn Peterson announced his return to form with a dazzling 32-point performance that lifted No. 22 Kansas to a remarkable 104-100 overtime victory against TCU on Tuesday night in Lawrence, Kansas.
The projected No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA draft showed exactly why he's so highly regarded, overcoming early-season injury setbacks to deliver when his team needed him most. Peterson's heroic performance included three clutch free throws with seconds remaining in regulation that sent the game to overtime and gave the Jayhawks new life.
What made this victory particularly special was the character Kansas displayed in fighting back from a daunting 16-point deficit midway through the second half. Rather than accepting defeat, the Jayhawks demonstrated the heart of champions, chipping away at TCU's lead possession by possession until they finally broke through.
The final moments of regulation provided pure basketball drama at its finest. After Flory Bidunga's tip-in cut the deficit to three with just over six seconds remaining, Kansas capitalized on a TCU turnover. Peterson calmly drew a foul beyond the three-point arc and, with ice in his veins, converted all three free throws to tie the game and electrify the home crowd.

In overtime, the Jayhawks seized control and never looked back. Guard Melvin Council Jr. was brilliant in the extra period, scoring nine of his 18 points when it mattered most. Kansas's composure at the free-throw line proved decisive, as they converted an impressive 9-of-11 attempts in overtime to seal the victory.
This game marked a significant milestone for Peterson, who has been limited to just six appearances this season due to injuries. His 32-point career-high performance suggests he's not only healthy but ready to showcase the extraordinary talent that has NBA scouts so excited about his future.
The victory wasn't achieved alone, as Kansas demonstrated impressive team depth. Tre White contributed 22 points, while Bidunga added 16 points to go along with his crucial late-game tip-in. The balanced scoring attack showed that this Jayhawks squad has multiple weapons and refuses to give up, regardless of the circumstances.
Credit also belongs to TCU, who played an outstanding game themselves. Liutauras Lelevicius enjoyed a breakout performance with a career-high 23 points, connecting on an impressive seven of nine shots including five three-pointers. Sophomore David Punch recorded his 10th consecutive double-digit performance with 20 points and nine rebounds, showing remarkable consistency.
For Kansas, this comeback victory improved their record to 11-4 overall and evened their Big 12 conference record at 1-1. The win demonstrated that this team possesses the resilience and determination that championship teams are built upon. As Peterson continues to regain his form and chemistry with his teammates develops, the Jayhawks' future looks incredibly bright.
This was college basketball at its absolute bestβtalented players rising to the occasion, a team refusing to quit, and fans treated to an unforgettable evening of athletic excellence.
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Based on reporting by ESPN
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
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