Who is best freshman guard? Darryn Peterson, Darius Acuff, Keaton Wagler, Kingston Flemings form top tier
CBS Sports
by
Adam Finkelstein
March 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The college basketball season has brought forth a fierce debate among fans and analysts about which freshman guard has delivered the most standout performance. While Duke's Cameron Boozer is widely regarded as the best overall player, the competition for the title of top freshman guard is equally intense. Darryn Peterson of Kansas, Darius Acuff of Arkansas, Keaton Wagler of Loyola Marymount, and Kingston Flemings of Dayton are all making strong cases, with each showcasing unique strengths that have elevated their teams' offenses.
Darius Acuff has emerged as a leading contender, averaging 22 points per game along with six assists and three rebounds. His advanced stats highlight his seventh-place ranking in BPM among freshmen guards, while he also holds the distinction of being one of two high-major players (alongside Trae Young) to average over 20 points and six assists. Acuff's ability to take over games, combined with his scoring prowess and playmaking instincts, has made him a catalyst for Arkansas' offense. His midrange game and physical strength allow him to create separation and score effectively, even without an explosive first step.
Meanwhile, Darryn Peterson of Kansas has been consistent despite battling injuries throughout the season. Averaging 19.7 points and 3.8 assists while shooting 40% from beyond the arc, Peterson has managed to score at least 10 points in 18 straight games—a feat unmatched by any Kansas freshman in recent memory. His leadership and ability to pressure the rim have made him a standout player on a team known for its defensive prowess.
Keaton Wagler and Kingston Flemings round out the top tier of guards, offering their own unique contributions. While both may not be in the spotlight as much as Acuff or Peterson, their impact is undeniable. Wagler's assist-to-turnover ratio and ability to control the game highlight his potential as a floor general, while Flemings' speed
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 3/3/2026