NBA Draft prospect says he thought he was going to die from cramping caused by creatine

Kansas guard Peterson feared death from severe creatine cramps

Kansas guard Darryn Peterson, a projected top-five pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, suffered body-wide cramps in September that led him to fear for his life. The incident occurred during a preseason practice, forcing him to beg trainers to call 911 as medical staff struggled to insert an IV amid the spasms. Peterson later linked the episode to high doses of creatine, which elevated his already high baseline levels to unsafe amounts.

Peterson had never used creatine before college but began taking it after offseason testing revealed his elevated baseline. He missed 11 games during the season and had playing time curtailed in others due to recurring cramps. Kansas coach Bill Self adjusted Peterson's role to off-ball duties to reduce exertion risks.

Peterson tried extensive remedies including daily rehab, massages, carb-loading, electrolyte supplements, and dietary changes such as meal prepping. He averaged 20.2 points per game and logged at least 30 minutes in eight of Kansas's final nine games. Peterson stopped creatine and has experienced no further issues.

Peterson shared the account with ESPN and remains on track for early selection in the NBA Draft next month.