Peterson's March Madness: Can He Silence Critics?

0:00On March 20, Kansas guard Darren Peterson has faced heavy criticism all season for cramping issues that sideline him for 11 games and cut short. Many second halves, as the projected number one pick in the NBA draft, fans and media expected more from the star freshmen. But lately he's turned things around, suiting up for the last seven games and logging over 30 minutes per night. Coach Bill Self believes Peterson is primed to play his best basketball yet in the NCAA tournament. Recent stretches show his elite shot making shining through, like those clutch threes that sealed an upset win over Texas Tech. Even with some shooting dips during Kansas' tough patch, his ability to take over games stands out. Critics have gone beyond the injuries, questioning if he has the fierce drive to become an NBA champion. Moments like missing the Arizona game with flu-like symptoms feel doubts about his toughness. Fans who hyped him early in the year now want proof he can deliver under pressure. To flip the script, Peterson needs a string of strong showings against elite foes in this

1:03tournament run. For Kansas to peak, he might have to take more contested shots himself, given his superior accuracy over teammates. It all kicks off tonight against Cal Baptist, where he'll face off with scoring machine Dominique Daniels Jr. If Peterson rises big in March madness, the regular season woes could fade fast, boosting his draft stock and carrying the J-Hawks deep into the bracket.