The future of the Border War remains uncertain as the current contract ends after next season, though Gates emphasized a desire to continue the rivalry given its emotional and family significance.

Peterson’s return could expand Kansas’ impact window, underscoring the Border War’s return to a prominent regular-season showcase.

Darryn Peterson returned from a hamstring injury and illness to lead Kansas to an 80-60 win over Missouri in the Border War, scoring 17 points in 23 minutes.

In the first half, Kansas surged late with a 12-2 run to take a 33-25 lead after Missouri tied the game earlier, with a notable exchange of technical fouls for Ant Robinson and Jamari McDowell during a flagrant review.

Missouri and Kansas battled in a college basketball game that Kansas won 80-60, with Peterson's return shaping the outcome.

Head coach Bill Self praised Peterson’s relentless work ethic and extensive shooting practice, while acknowledging ongoing day-to-day uncertainty about his availability.

Key rotation pieces for KU include Bidunga, whose minutes have risen but require pacing due to foul trouble, and Bryson Tiller, whose production could be crucial for frontcourt depth.

Peterson’s commitment includes treatments and solo shooting, and Self noted the challenge of managing expectations and health as he progresses toward potential NBA prospects.

Kansas’ ceiling this season hinges on Peterson’s health and performance, with his consistency potentially steering the March run.

The neutral-site KU-Missouri meeting at T-Mobile Center in Kansas City marks the first regular-season Border War outside Lawrence or Columbia since 1977, signaling renewed conference-play implications.

Kansas previously showed resilience without Peterson, winning three games in Las Vegas events and competing against Duke and No. 5 UConn, demonstrating depth and growth.

Self stressed the rivalry’s significance and noted Peterson’s return could boost execution, while conceding he may not yet be back to peak form.