Iowa State F Joshua Jefferson's Status Uncertain for Sweet 16 Matchup

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

Mar. 26, 2026 at 6:49am

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Iowa State All-American forward Joshua Jefferson is dealing with a sprained left ankle and his status for the team's Sweet 16 game against Tennessee on Friday night in Chicago will be a game-time decision, according to Cyclones head coach T.J. Otzelberger. Jefferson, who ranks second on the team in scoring, assists, and rebounding, suffered the injury in Iowa State's first-round NCAA Tournament win over Tennessee State.

Why it matters

Jefferson's potential absence would be a major blow for an Iowa State team that has relied heavily on his production all season. The Cyclones are looking to advance to the Elite Eight for the first time since 2014, and having their leading scorer and rebounder available will be crucial against a tough Tennessee squad.

The details

Jefferson sprained his left ankle while driving to the hoop in Iowa State's first-round game against Tennessee State last Friday. He sat out the Cyclones' second-round win over Kentucky two days later. Otzelberger said Jefferson has been working tirelessly in treatment and is making progress, but there is no definitive timeline on his return to the court.

  • Jefferson was injured in Iowa State's first-round game on March 24.
  • He sat out the Cyclones' second-round game on March 26.
  • Iowa State is set to face Tennessee in the Sweet 16 on March 31 in Chicago.

The players

Joshua Jefferson

An All-American forward for Iowa State who is the team's second-leading scorer, rebounder, and assist man.

T.J. Otzelberger

The head coach of the Iowa State Cyclones men's basketball team.

Tennessee

Iowa State's opponent in the Sweet 16 of the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament.

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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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