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ESPN analyst has concerns for Darryn Peterson ahead of March Madness

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Matt Wadleigh | Last updated Mar 17, 2026 6:28 PM ET

The NCAA Tournament begins on Tuesday and Wednesday with First Four games, and the Round of 64 kicks off on Thursday.

One storyline entering this year’s March Madness is Kansas Jayhawks star Darryn Peterson, who is in the running to be the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.

Peterson has missed plenty of games in his freshman season due to injuries and cramping, and his murky availability has raised red flags for many analysts. Now, ESPN insider Seth Greenberg expressed concern for Peterson just ahead of March Madness.

“He’s an incredible talent,” Greenberg said. “He doesn’t play with any joy.”

"He doesn't play with any joy."@SethOnHoops has questions for Darryn Peterson and the leadership on Kansas' squad. pic.twitter.com/uQCXzvwJ4G
— Jim Rome (@jimrome) March 17, 2026

Greenberg mentioned Kansas’ lopsided 69-47 loss to Houston on Friday at the Big 12 Conference tournament in Kansas City, Mo, and the energy the Jayhawks team showed in that performance.

Peterson’s play is not something to question, but his availability has raised red flags with NBA scouts and talent evaluators.

Peterson has also exited games early due to cramping and injuries, and Kansas coach Bill Self admitted his frustration with the matter in February.

Kansas is a No. 4 seed in the NCAA Tournament, and the Jayhawks take on No. 13 seed Cal Baptist at Viejas Arena in San Diego, Calif., on Friday.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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