Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins recently praised Arkansas freshman guard Darius Acuff Jr., stating he is the best college guard ever coached by John Calipari, surpassing even NBA stars like Devin Booker. Perkins made these remarks during an episode of First Take after Acuff’s impressive 49-point performance against Alabama, despite the Razorbacks’ loss. Highlighting his strong college statistics, Perkins emphasized that his judgment is based solely on Acuff’s college career.
Outstanding College Performance Sets Acuff Apart
Darius Acuff Jr. boasts an impressive average of 22.3 points per game, alongside 3.0 rebounds and 6.2 assists, while shooting over 50% from the field and 44.3% from beyond the arc. This scoring average is the highest recorded by any guard coached by Calipari. While many recognize John Wall and Derrick Rose as standout guards under Calipari, neither matched Acuff’s point production during their college tenures. Jamal Murray, another notable player from Calipari’s roster, averaged 20 points per game during his best season, trailing behind Acuff’s current stats.
Perkins Endorses Acuff as a No. 1 NBA Draft Pick
Amid widespread projections placing Darryn Peterson as the likely top pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, Perkins challenged that view by arguing Acuff is more prepared for the professional level. Peterson’s limited playing time—less than 25 minutes across his past 15 games—has raised questions about his readiness. In contrast, Perkins describes Acuff as a “bona fide killer” with scoring ability that surpasses other top prospects.
“I would actually take Darius Acuff Jr. with the No. 1 pick,” Perkins said. “He is Stephon Marbury times two, with a [Derrick] Rose mentality, as far as his demeanor. He is a bona fide killer. And, when you look at the guards, when you look at the scoring that can impact the league, he’s more NBA-ready right now than AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson.”
This endorsement comes amid ongoing debate, with media and analysts currently favoring Peterson based on draft hype despite his inconsistent court presence. Perkins’ strong opinion provides an alternative perspective on who the NBA should prioritize in future drafts.
Comparing College Guards in Calipari’s Lineup
Despite John Wall and Derrick Rose often being celebrated for their dynamic playing styles, neither reached Acuff’s scoring levels during their collegiate years. Acuff’s efficient shooting and well-rounded contributions, including assists and rebounds, position him as a dominant all-around guard. His ability to maintain over a 50% shooting rate with strong three-point accuracy distinguishes him within a competitive SEC landscape.
Casting Doubt on Darryn Peterson’s Draft Stock
Darryn Peterson’s status as a potential No. 1 overall pick has been publicly challenged, including by commentator Stephen A. Smith, who expressed serious reservations about selecting Peterson first in the draft. Smith’s blunt warning underscores the controversy surrounding Peterson’s draft readiness and in-game impact.
no team in hell should grab Peterson at No.1.
Moreover, recent games have featured Peterson voluntarily signaling to his coach for substitution, actions that have drawn criticism and further scrutiny of his commitment and health, notably from Kansas coach Bill Self.
Acuff’s Outlook Amid Draft Prospects
While AJ Dybantsa currently leads in points per game at 24.8 and Peterson averages 20 points when playing, Acuff’s all-around game and college performance have earned him projections as a lottery pick. Perkins’ comparison of Acuff to NBA legends Stephon Marbury and Derrick Rose speaks to his belief that Acuff’s on-court demeanor and skill set make him exceptionally ready for the professional ranks.
Implications for the Upcoming NBA Draft and Player Evaluations
Kendrick Perkins’ outspoken support for Darius Acuff Jr. challenges prevailing opinions and introduces significant discussion regarding player readiness and draft priorities. Acuff’s achievements under John Calipari’s coaching present a compelling case for NBA teams to reconsider conventional rankings of upcoming talent, especially in light of concerns about players like Darryn Peterson. As NBA scouts and general managers evaluate prospects, the debate over who deserves top draft selections will likely intensify.
"He is the best guard that John Calipari has coached. I'm not talking about NBA career, college career."@KendrickPerkins believes that @DariusAcuff is the best guard to come through the John Calipari system ✍️ pic.twitter.com/eNHl2kMZvG
— First Take (@FirstTake) February 19, 2026
