AJ Dybantsa Could Leapfrog Darryn Peterson for No 1

Merlin senses the high school fan wondering who will go No. 1. Kansas freshman Darryn Peterson has slipped from a presumed top spot after a rough stretch and questions about availability. One scout told The Athletic that BYU freshman AJ Dybantsa is "a real conversation" because "what he's been doing at his size, is different." Peterson said, "There was some foolish stuff being said" and is focused on getting healthy. Peterson still averages 19.8 points while shooting 44.2 percent overall and 38.4 from three, but late-season dips and cramping have scouts wary. Merlin sees evaluators leaning toward size and steadiness, which gives Dybantsa momentum. If Peterson clears up health concerns and returns to form, the lore around him can shift back as quickly as it unraveled.