Expectations are high for true-freshman point guard Darryn Peterson, says Kansas coach Bill Self. Peterson is easily the biggest scoop by the Jayhawks for the class of 2025, with the five-star recruit being considered the best overall prospect in the nation by 247Sports.
During an interview with CBS Sports on July 21, Self spoke about the unique expectations being set up for Peterson in the 2025-26 season. When asked particularly who he would compare to Peterson in levels of expectation for his freshman season, Self said:
“I would think, as a freshman coming in with the ability to put a team on his back. I’ll be honest, I don’t know that I’ve had one. We didn’t ask Wiggs (Andrew Wiggins) to do that as a freshman. (Joel) Embiid didn’t do that as a freshman. Josh (Jackson) and Frank Mason, and Devonte Graham didn’t ask to do as a freshman… Let’s just call it like it is, Darryn needs to be the guy.” (15:26)
It seems there’s no point of comparison for Darryn Peterson. However, it wouldn’t be the first time a freshman is asked to carry a basketball program. Just ask Duke and Cooper Flagg about last season.
Bill Self’s statement regarding heart condition and hospitalization
It was a little under a week ago that Bill Self was released from Lawrence Memorial Hospital after being hospitalized for a concerning heart condition. In the aftermath, Self released the following statement about his health:
“I want to thank all the amazing doctors and nurses at LMH Health for the excellent care I received during my stay,” Self said in a statement. “I feel strong and am excited to be home. Our team has had a productive summer, and I’m looking forward to recharging and preparing for the upcoming season.”
Kansas coach Bill Self has heart surgery https://t.co/UGvWRaauGD
— Sentinel-Tribune (@sentineltribune) July 25, 2025
Self had to be operated on to insert two stents into blocked arteries. It wasn’t the first time the Jayhawks’ coach suffered from heart problems. In 2023, he missed the Big 12 NCAA tournament also due to complications with his health.
A week ago, Self started feeling unwell after directing Kansas’ final practice of the summer session. That Thursday, he was admitted to Lawrence Memorial Hospital with ‘concerning symptoms.’
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
