Story perspectives
Braden Smith and Darryn Peterson Lead 2025-26 Player Race
10/30/2025
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Story summary
- Braden Smith (Purdue) and Darryn Peterson (Kansas) are top candidates for the 2025-26 National Player of the Year.
- Braden Smith, a senior guard, averaged 15.8 points and 8.7 assists last season.
- Darryn Peterson, a highly touted Kansas freshman, is expected to make a significant impact.
- JT Toppin (Texas Tech) and AJ Dybantsa (BYU) are listed among notable players.
- The preseason All-America selections indicate a competitive 2025-26 season.
