Iowa State F Joshua Jefferson Questionable for Sweet 16 Game

Cyclones coach says ankle injury will be a game-time decision

Mar. 26, 2026 at 7:22pm

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Iowa State All-American forward Joshua Jefferson is questionable for the team's Sweet 16 matchup against Tennessee on Friday night due to a sprained left ankle. Cyclones coach T.J. Otzelberger said Jefferson is making progress but his status won't be determined until just before the game.

Why it matters

Jefferson is a key player for Iowa State, ranking second on the team in scoring, assists, and rebounding. His potential absence would be a significant blow to the Cyclones' chances of advancing in the NCAA Tournament.

The details

Jefferson suffered the ankle injury while driving to the hoop in Iowa State's first-round game against Tennessee State last Friday. He sat out the team's second-round game against Kentucky two days later. Otzelberger said Jefferson has been working tirelessly in treatment and the team will evaluate his status right up until game time on Friday.

  • Jefferson was injured in Iowa State's first-round game on March 24.
  • He sat out the team's second-round game on March 26.
  • The Sweet 16 matchup against Tennessee is scheduled for March 31.

The players

Joshua Jefferson

An All-American forward for Iowa State who is second on the team in scoring, assists, and rebounding.

T.J. Otzelberger

The head coach of the Iowa State Cyclones basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“He's working tirelessly every day. Countless sessions in the training room. Doing everything he can. His ankle is getting better every single day. It will go right up to game time.”

— T.J. Otzelberger, Head Coach, Iowa State Cyclones

What’s next

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The takeaway

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