Darryn Peterson drafted No. 2 overall by Utah Jazz, vows to emulate Kobe Bryant
Utah selected guard Darryn Peterson with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. Coming from the University of Kansas, Peterson averaged 20.2 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists in his lone college season. He repeatedly cited former Laker Kobe Bryant as his basketball idol, saying, “I’m a Kobe guy… I want to be a lockdown defender.” Peterson has expressed a desire to become a two‑way star and praised the Jazz’s roster—including Keyonte George, Lauri Markkanen and Jaren Jackson Jr.—as a strong fit for his development.
Peterson also told fans he is approachable and eager to connect with the Utah community, inviting photographs and autographs. Off the court, his brother Darryl Peterson III signed with the Los Angeles Rams, making the Petersons the first siblings to enter the NBA and NFL in the same year, a historic first‑of‑its‑kind milestone.
The Jazz view Peterson as a cornerstone of their young core and expect him to contribute in the Summer League before the regular season.