Kansas freshman Darryn Peterson and BYU’s AJ Dybantsa are widely projected to be the top two picks in the 2026 NBA Draft, creating a natural rivalry. The two elite prospects have known each other for years, but as their professional careers draw closer, their on-court competitiveness is reaching a new level.
During a recent interview, Peterson looked candidly into their unique relationship, one built on mutual respect off the court and a fierce desire to dominate on it.
What Did Darryn Peterson Say About His Rivalry With AJ Dybantsa?
During an appearance on the CBS Sports College Basketball program, “Eye On College Basketball,” Peterson opened up about his connection with Dybantsa. When asked how well he knew the BYU freshman, Peterson confirmed their history and explained how their competitive fire has shaped their bond.
“No doubt, I’m familiar with him. We’ve been around each other for a couple years now, at camps and stuff. So personally, I think when you’re around someone so much, you eventually start to kind of build a relationship,” Peterson said.
However, he quickly clarified that their friendship is limited, especially when they step over the line. “Obviously, we’re not best friends, but off court, we hang with each other, we’re cool. But on court, super competitive, and we wanna kill each other, which is why I think our relationship is where it is. Cause we’re just two competitors.”
That competitive nature was immediately displayed when both players made their collegiate exhibition debuts, validating the hype surrounding their draft stock.
How Did Both Players Look in Their College Debuts?
Peterson started his college career with a bang, scoring 26 points in just 25 minutes to lead No. 19 Kansas to a 90-82 victory over No. 11 Louisville on October 24. He was incredibly efficient, shooting 9-of-15 from the field and 6-of-10 from three-point range while recording five steals. His first-half performance was remarkable; he scored 24 of his 26 points before halftime.
Kansas coach Bill Self praised the effort, stating, “Those were hard points, and it was pretty special.”
Meanwhile, Dybantsa had an equally explosive debut for BYU, pouring in 30 points off the bench in a narrow 90-89 exhibition loss at Nebraska on October 18. In 32 minutes of action, he shot 10-of-19 from the field and a perfect 8-of-8 from the free-throw line, adding seven rebounds, three assists, three steals, and a block. Both performances quickly affirmed their status as the top two prospects in their class.
MORE: 2026 NBA Mock Draft: Cam Boozer, Darryn Peterson, AJ Dybantsa Lead Loaded Class
Following his impressive start, Peterson sat out the Jayhawks’ second exhibition game against Fort Hays State on October 28 to manage cramps, though Kansas still secured an easy 71-35 win. Both freshmen will officially begin the regular season on Monday, November 3. Kansas hosts Green Bay at Allen Fieldhouse at 7:00 p.m. CT, while BYU takes on Villanova in Las Vegas at 6:30 p.m. ET.
However, the real test of their on-court rivalry is set for January 31, 2026, when Kansas hosts BYU at Allen Fieldhouse. This marks the only regular-season meeting between the two teams, giving Peterson and Dybantsa a single, highly anticipated opportunity to settle the debate before the NCAA Tournament in March.
