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Darryn Peterson Makes Kobe Bryant Admission Ahead of Rookie Year With Jazz

Darryn Peterson Makes Kobe Bryant Admission Ahead of Rookie Year With Jazz

Summary

Darryn Peterson was picked by the Utah Jazz as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. At his first press event, he said Kobe Bryant is his role model, especially for defense, and he wants to follow Bryant’s example on the court.

Key Facts

  • AJ Dybantsa was the first overall pick by the Washington Wizards in the 2026 NBA Draft.
  • Darryn Peterson was selected second overall by the Utah Jazz.
  • Peterson said Kobe Bryant is his idol and that he wants to be a strong defender like him.
  • Peterson is 6-foot-9 with a 6-foot-10 wingspan, which he believes helps his defense.
  • Last year as a freshman at Kansas, Peterson scored an average of 20.2 points per game.
  • He set a Kansas freshmen scoring record and earned second-team All-Big 12 honors.
  • Analysts and players like DeMarcus Cousins have compared Peterson’s style to Kobe Bryant.
  • The Utah Jazz are building a strong team around young players, including Peterson, Ace Bailey, Keyonte George, Lauri Markkanen, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Walker Kessler.
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