Gilbert Arenas recalls Darryn Peterson’s early professional habits in new Jazz feature

Darryn Peterson’s reputation for preparation began before he joined the Utah Jazz, according to a story Gilbert Arenas shared on “Gil’s Arena” and revisited in an October 12 Deseret News feature.

Arenas recalled his son Alijah describing Peterson as unusually serious about basketball when they roomed together during USA Basketball in 2023. The account is Arenas’ recollection of what his son told him, rather than a new announcement from the Jazz.

Film, rest and a routine

Deseret News reporter Na’Andre Emerson described Arenas’ account of Peterson encouraging his roommate to stay in, watch film and rest ahead of practice instead of going out. Arenas also recalled mini-workouts, calf raises and arriving early for the team bus.

The story is also preserved in the transcript of the October 8 “Gil’s Arena” episode. It presents Peterson’s approach as a habit formed in high school, not something he first adopted after reaching the NBA.

Utah sees the same approach

The Deseret News feature connects that earlier anecdote with comments from Utah’s training camp. Coach Will Hardy said at media day that Peterson already had a detailed routine and was a fast learner. Veteran center Jusuf Nurkic praised the rookie’s maturity and willingness to work.

Those are assessments from people around Peterson, not guarantees about his NBA career. They do explain why his preparation has become a talking point as Utah introduces him to a new level of competition.

Peterson told reporters that playing alongside NBA veterans gives him mentors outside his college age group. The feature describes a rookie trying to learn from that experience while adjusting to stronger, longer and faster defenders.

For more on the setting for his first NBA season, follow the WhyNBA team directory. The Jazz’s young guard still has to translate those habits into consistent game performance; the early praise is about his approach to that work.