LAWRENCE, KS — In a performance that defied the odds, Darryn Peterson scored 32 points to lead No. 22 Kansas to a 104-100 overtime victory over TCU on Tuesday night. The Jayhawks orchestrated a comeback for the ages, erasing a 16-point second-half deficit to secure their first Big 12 win of the season.
A Rally for the Record Books
The Jayhawks (11-4, 1-1 Big 12) appeared to be headed for a loss, trailing by 16 points midway through the second half. Even with five minutes remaining, the deficit stood at 15 points. According to historical data, this victory marks only the 13th time in NCAA Division I men’s basketball history that a team has rallied from 15 or more points down with less than five minutes left on the clock.
The final seconds of regulation were a whirlwind of momentum shifts:
- The Spark: Flory Bidunga converted a tip-in with six seconds left to cut TCU’s lead to three.
- The Blunder: TCU committed a critical turnover on the ensuing inbounds play.
- The Clutch: Darryn Peterson drew a foul on a three-point attempt and calmly knocked down all three free throws to tie the game and force overtime.
Overtime Dominance
Once in the extra period, Kansas never looked back. Guard Melvin Council Jr. took over the scoring load, accounting for nine of his 18 points in overtime. The Jayhawks’ discipline at the charity stripe proved to be the deciding factor; Kansas went 9-of-11 from the free-throw line in overtime, while the Horned Frogs (11-4, 1-1) managed only 2-for-4.
Notable Performances
Despite the loss, TCU saw standout performances from Liutauras Lelevicius, who posted a career-high 23 points, including five 3-pointers. Sophomore David Punch also continued his consistent play, recording his 10th consecutive double-digit game with 20 points and nine rebounds.
For the Jayhawks, the scoring effort was well-balanced behind Peterson’s 32:
- Tre White: 22 points
- Melvin Council Jr.: 18 points
- Flory Bidunga: 16 points
Up Next
The Jayhawks will look to carry this momentum on the road as they travel to face West Virginia this Saturday.
