Iowa State's Joshua Jefferson a key against Texas Tech

Versatile senior forward does it all for the fourth-ranked Cyclones

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Iowa State senior forward Joshua Jefferson is a key player for the fourth-ranked Cyclones as they take on No. 16 Texas Tech. Jefferson, a 6-9, 240-pound forward, does many things well and is the only Power Five player in the country averaging at least 16.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game. He has also recorded two triple-doubles this season, showcasing his all-around abilities.

Why it matters

Jefferson's versatility and defensive intensity will be crucial as Iowa State faces a tough Texas Tech team that has had to adjust after losing star player JT Toppin to a season-ending injury. The Cyclones will look to deploy their trademark ball pressure and trapping defense to make the Red Raiders uncomfortable.

The details

Iowa State coach T.J. Otzelberger praised Jefferson's defensive intensity, saying the team is at its best when the senior is "flying around on defense." Jefferson can guard every position and is a focal point on both ends of the floor. The Cyclones will need Jefferson's all-around game, including his ability to find open teammates, to counter Texas Tech's well-coached offense.

  • Iowa State (24-4, 11-4 Big 12) hosts Texas Tech (21-7, 11-4) on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 3 p.m. CST.

The players

Joshua Jefferson

A 6-9, 240-pound senior forward for Iowa State who is the only Power Five player in the country averaging at least 16.6 points, 7.5 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.5 steals per game. He has recorded two triple-doubles this season.

T.J. Otzelberger

The head coach of the Iowa State men's basketball team, who has praised Jefferson's defensive intensity and versatility.

JT Toppin

The former conference player of the year for Texas Tech who suffered a season-ending knee injury on February 17.

Christian Anderson

The leading scorer for Texas Tech, averaging 19.6 points per game.

Nate Heise

The senior defensive captain for Iowa State.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The thing that I feel like stands out the most is his defensive intensity. Our team is at its best when Joshua's flying around on defense. He's really taken a leadership role and committed to that.”

— T.J. Otzelberger, Iowa State Head Coach (thegazette.com)

“I think the ball has energy, and when guys see the ball moving around, it's just gonna make them play more free. So when everybody has a chance to touch the ball, it's gonna give them more confidence.”

— Joshua Jefferson (thegazette.com)

“Obviously, losing that guy has a big impact, but they're still a really good team, a really well-coached team. It's really just do what we did when we last played at home. Feed off the crowd's energy and pressure the ball, create turnovers, then get out on offense and play for each other.”

— Nate Heise, Iowa State Senior Defensive Captain (thegazette.com)

What’s next

The winner of the Iowa State-Texas Tech matchup will take a step closer to securing a top-4 seed in the Big 12 tournament.

The takeaway

Joshua Jefferson's versatility and defensive intensity will be crucial for Iowa State as they look to take down a tough Texas Tech team that has had to adjust after losing their star player. The Cyclones' ability to pressure the ball and create turnovers could be the key to victory.