The Kansas Jayhawks secured a crucial 90-82 win against 11th-ranked Louisville in their exhibition opener on October 24, 2025. This match took place at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky.
Outstanding Performance from Darryn Peterson
Freshman Darryn Peterson showcased his skills, scoring a total of 26 points. He made a significant impact in the first half, hitting six three-pointers. This contribution came despite a quieter second half due to cramping.
Game Highlights
- Peterson scored 24 points in the first half alone.
- He was complemented by Xavier transfer Ryan Conwell, who also scored 26 points for Louisville.
- Kansas had a strong free-throw performance, finishing 18-for-19.
- Flory Bidunga contributed 14 points, while Bryson Tiller added 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 blocks.
Teams’ Performance Overview
Both teams struggled offensively, leading to a total of 58 fouls throughout the game. Louisville only managed a 28.9% shooting rate from three-point territory, while Kansas shot 2-for-11 outside the arc.
Key Statistics
| Team | Points | 3-Point Shooting | Free Throws |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas Jayhawks | 90 | 2-for-11 | 18-for-19 |
| Louisville Cardinals | 82 | 11-for-38 (28.9%) | N/A |
Game Dynamics
Kansas took an early lead, and Louisville struggled to regain momentum. The Cardinals led briefly but fell behind, with their last lead lasting just over a minute. Kansas eventually held a substantial 46-30 advantage at halftime.
Coaching Comments
KU coach Bill Self emphasized the importance of team effort, noting that winning with Peterson on the bench during the second half was a positive sign for the Jayhawks. He acknowledged the need for Peterson to maintain his performance against tougher opponents.
Next Steps
Following this successful exhibition opener, Kansas will return home to face Division II opponent Fort Hays State, looking to build on this momentum.
