Kansas’ Darryn Peterson shares ‘Rock Chalk Forever’ message while declaring for NBA draft

One day after AJ Dybantsa declared for the 2026 NBA Draft, his competition for the No. 1 pick followed suit.

Darryn Peterson made his move to the pro ranks official on Friday, April 24, in a letter posted on social media. Peterson spent one season with the Kansas Jayhawks, averaging 20.2 points per game.

MORE: BYU’s AJ Dybantsa declares for NBA draft, joins conversation for No. 1 pick

“After much reflection and prayer, I am proud to announce my decision to declare for the NBA draft,” Peterson wrote. “This has been my lifelong dream, and I am excited for the future.

“Rock Chalk Forever!”

Peterson, a 6-foot-6 guard, ranks No. 2 behind Dybantsa on ESPN’s NBA draft board. That is mainly because of Peterson’s struggle with injuries. For instance, he was limited to 24 games by full-body cramping, a hamstring strain, a sprained ankle and an illness.

“Ultimately, NBA teams want to know that Peterson will be fully available and understand what it will take to get the best version of him in the pros. He’ll have a chance to answer some of the lingering questions in the predraft process, where his medical report and team interviews will carry extra weight,” ESPN’s Jeremy Woo wrote.

Still, Peterson’s scoring ability has kept him among the game’s top prospects. He also averaged 4.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists as a freshman.

Kansas finished 24-11, dropping six of its final 11 games. The Jayhawks earned a No. 4 seed in the NCAA Tournament, falling to the No. 5-seeded St. John’s Red Storm in the Round of 32.

Finally, Peterson thanked his teammates and coaches at Kansas on the way to the NBA.

“To my teammates, you are my brothers for life. To the coaches and staff at Kansas, I am grateful for your trust and for helping me grow both on and off the court,” he wrote.