This article was first published as the Jazz Insiders newsletter. Sign up to receive the newsletter in your inbox each Friday.
Darryn Peterson knows that everyone has heard he’s a quiet and reserved guy, and there are certainly instances when that’s true.
On the court he considers himself to be more of a lead-by-example type and a quiet killer rather than a loud and boisterous player but he wants Jazz fans to know that around people, he’s not the introvert he’s been painted to be.
He’s just as excited about being selected No. 2 overall by the Utah Jazz as Jazz fans were about the selection, and even more so, Peterson wants Jazz fans to know that he’s approachable and that he intends on being close with the community.
“What the fans should know about me?” Peterson said, mulling over the question on draft night. “I’m approachable. You want a pic or autograph or anything? Just come say what’s up. I’m a pretty cool guy. I’m human, too, so whatever you want — picture, autograph, whatever — just hit me up.”
Peterson arrived in Utah on Friday afternoon, had his introductory press conference with the Jazz on Saturday and now the work begins.
He’ll be with the rest of the Jazz’s young core, preparing for Salt Lake City and Las Vegas Summer League.
Jazz fans erupted at the draft watch party when Peterson’s name was called as being the Jazz’s selection and Peterson was shown clips of the watch party, making him even more excited to get in uniform and get to work.
“I’ve seen the watch party video and it put a smile on my face, just because it’s huge when you have a supporting cast,” Peterson said. “And I know how important it is for the fans for me to put on the jersey and go out there and try to get wins, so that’s great.”
New with the Jazz
From the archives
Extra points
- A trip to Ohio by Jazz brass sealed the deal on selecting Darryn Peterson (Deseret News)
- Jazz select Darryn Peterson, the guy they always wanted, with the 2nd pick (Deseret News)
- Jazz are on the clock to win a title. Will their new addition get them there? (Deseret News)
Around the league
- Draft night sends No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa from BYU to nation’s capital
- Hornets trade LaMelo Ball to Timberwolves for Naz Reid and picks
- Giannis Antetokounmpo traded to Miami, ending saga of the summer
Up next
- SLC Summer League | July 4, 6, 7 | KJZZ
- Las Vegas Summer League | July 9-19 | TBD