Darryn Peterson Labeled 'Immature' For Shutting Down NBA Draft Meetings

Kansas basketball star Darryn Peterson isn't lacking any confidence in his abilities on the hardwood, that's for sure.

Peterson had an impressive freshman season for Kansas when he was actually available, averaging 20.2 points per game on 43.8% shooting from the field. The problem though is that he missed 11 games for various reasons, including cramping issues that were caused by high doses of creatine.

As of this moment, the Washington Wizards own the No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. While the favorite to go first overall is BYU star AJ Dybantsa, there's belief from Peterson's camp that he could hear his name called before anyone else.

In fact, ESPN's Shams Charania and Jeremy Woo reported that only the Wizards have been granted access to visit with Peterson.

"Developments ahead of the June 23-24 NBA draft: BYU's AJ Dybantsa has conducted formal visits with both the Washington Wizards (No. 1) and Utah Jazz (No. 2) while Kansas' Darryn Peterson only visited the Wizards and does not plan to grant anyone else a meeting," Charania said. "Both have believed in going No. 1 -- and now teams in the lottery are taking note of Peterson's decision to only give access to Washington."

Judging by the reactions online, NBA fans are convinced Peterson is making a huge mistake by only meeting with the Wizards.

"Wow not a good look," one fan commented. "Peterson played half his games. Who does he think he is to not grant anyone else meetings."

"Peterson refusing to meet with anyone besides the Wizards isn't the flex or confidence he thinks it is. His team probably thinks it's 'Mamba Mentality' but it really is just weird and immature," a second person wrote.

"I like his confidence but Darryn Peterson should definitely at least have a visit with the Jazz," another fan said.

Who'll go No. 1 to the Wizards?

As of this moment, Woo has the Wizards using the No. 1 pick on Dybantsa.

"Dybantsa is a strong fit for Washington on paper, even with the Wizards' collection of younger wings, with his physicality and athletic tools giving him major two-way upside. He built a strong case at No. 1 over the course of an impressive freshman season, leading Division I in scoring and displaying growth as he learned to shoulder major offensive responsibility," Woo wrote. "NBA teams view his excellent size and powerful, physical style as hallmarks of a potential franchise-level talent. He has room for realistic growth as a perimeter shooter and defender and checks all the boxes NBA teams look for in a future star at a coveted position."

This year's NBA Draft will take place from June 23-24.

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This story was originally published June 15, 2026 at 4:00 PM.