The Jayhawks have weathered the storm without Darryn Peterson, posting a 10–3 non-conference record (third in strength of schedule among power conference teams).
Regardless of Peterson's status, Bill Self hopes another guard can step up in the backcourt as Big 12 play approaches.
Jamari McDowell has made a leap in his redshirt sophomore campaign, emerging as a trusted ball handler and defender, as well as a reliable three-point shooter. Starting in the Jayhawks’ past five games without Peterson, he has become a dependable rotational piece for the squad.
Elmarko Jackson, another redshirt sophomore, delivered the biggest game of his career by leading Kansas past Tennessee at the Players Era Festival.