Freshmen Darryn Peterson of Kansas and AJ Dybantsa of BYU, both projected as top picks in the 2026 NBA Draft, will meet in a key Big 12 matchup on Saturday. The No. 14 Jayhawks host the No. 13 Cougars in Lawrence, highlighting two of college basketball's brightest stars. Peterson's injury-limited season has not dimmed his shine, while Dybantsa has dominated from the start.
The upcoming Big 12 Conference game between the Kansas Jayhawks and BYU Cougars carries extra weight due to the presence of Darryn Peterson and AJ Dybantsa, freshmen widely regarded as elite prospects for the 2026 NBA Draft.
Kansas, ranked No. 14 with a 15-5 overall record and 5-2 in conference play, has relied on Peterson despite his hamstring strain and cramping issues. In 10 starts, the Kansas guard averages 21.6 points and 4.6 rebounds per game, earning praise as an effective shot-maker from all areas of the court. Coach Bill Self recently indicated Peterson is likely to play, setting up a potential showdown with BYU's star.
BYU, No. 13 at 17-3 overall and 5-2 in the Big 12, features Dybantsa, who has started all 20 games, averaging 23.6 points and 6.7 rebounds. The 6'9 forward's scoring prowess has made him a focal point for the Cougars' success.
Recent mock drafts underscore their potential. USA Today projections have Dybantsa at No. 1 and Peterson at No. 2 in one scenario, or vice versa in another. SB Nation's simulation slots Duke's Cameron Boozer at No. 1, Peterson at No. 2 for Dallas, and Dybantsa at No. 3 for Sacramento. None project either below No. 3 overall, affirming their status as the class's top talents.
This Saturday's game in Lawrence is the only regular-season meeting between the teams, unless they cross paths in the Big 12 or NCAA tournaments. Observers will watch how the competitive duo matches up, potentially previewing future NBA rivalries.
