Darryn Peterson Scores 28 in Summer League Debut as Jazz Hold Off Hawks in Overtime

Darryn Peterson delivered one of the standout performances in the latest NBA News, leading the Utah Jazz to a 103-102 overtime victory over the Atlanta Hawks during the opening day of the Salt Lake City Summer League on Saturday. The No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft scored a game-high 28 points and came through with timely baskets to help Utah secure a hard-fought win.

The game featured several highly regarded young prospects looking to make an early impression. Although Summer League results do not count toward the regular season, the event provides valuable opportunities for rookies and second-year players to adjust to the professional game while teams evaluate their development.

Peterson leads Utah in strong professional debut

Peterson entered Summer League after an injury-affected college season at Kansas, where recurring cramping issues limited his availability. Before the NBA Draft, he said doctors determined the problem was linked to high doses of creatine rather than a long-term medical concern.

Making his first appearance since Kansas' NCAA Tournament loss in March, Peterson wasted little time making an impact. He scored on his opening offensive possession, collected an early rebound, and recorded a chase-down block before finishing with 28 points on 11-for-21 shooting, including four three-pointers. He also added five rebounds, two assists, and two blocks in 27 minutes.

Clutch shooting helps Jazz finish the job

Utah controlled much of the game after building a 16-point lead during the first half. Atlanta gradually fought its way back, using defensive pressure to erase an eight-point deficit late in regulation by forcing several turnovers.

Max Abmas kept the Jazz alive by making two free throws in the closing seconds to force overtime. Peterson then delivered the biggest shot of the night, sinking a go-ahead three-pointer in the extra period to help Utah escape with the one-point victory.

Peterson's eight turnovers showed there is still room for improvement as he adjusts to the NBA. Even so, he remained aggressive throughout the game and continued making plays despite the mistakes.

Rising stars in the NBA continue to impress

Saturday's matchup also highlighted several rising stars in the NBA beyond Peterson. Cody Williams, the Jazz's No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, finished with 17 points while shooting efficiently and added five rebounds, one steal, and two blocks to cap another encouraging outing.

Utah also received 15 points each from Max Abmas and Justin Harmon off the bench. Second-year forward Ace Bailey contributed 10 points and six rebounds before leaving during the second half because of right back spasms.

Atlanta also had several positives despite falling just short. Asa Newell and Gabe Madsen scored 15 points apiece, while rookie guard Kingston Flemings finished with 14 points, a game-high nine assists, and four steals despite shooting 4-for-16 from the field.

Flemings nearly forced another overtime twist after appearing to make a game-tying three-pointer in the extra period. Officials reviewed the play and ruled that his foot was on the line, reducing the basket to two points and preserving Utah's lead.

The Hawks forced 26 Utah turnovers and outscored the Jazz 26-18 in transition, nearly completing an impressive comeback after trailing by double digits. Improving ball security will likely be one of Utah's priorities as Summer League continues.

Even with the turnovers, Peterson's debut offered an encouraging glimpse of his potential at both ends of the floor. His performance also reinforced why many view him as one of the rising stars in the NBA, while adding another memorable storyline to this week's NBA News as both teams prepare for their next Summer League games.