Joshua Jefferson’s status determined for Iowa State vs. Tennessee in Sweet 16
By Andrew Olson
Published:
Joshua Jefferson will not play for Iowa State on Friday night against Tennessee.
The Cyclones star has been dealing with a sprained ankle. Roughly an hour before tipoff, Iowa State announced that Jefferson is a no-go against the Volunteers.
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Jefferson’s status has been a leading storyline all week. Even a gameday availability report referred to him as “questionable” until the team announcement made at 9:10 p.m. ET.
Joshua Jefferson is Out for Tonight’s Game.
— Iowa State Men’s Basketball (@CycloneMBB) March 28, 2026
Jefferson averages 16.4 points, 7.4 rebounds and 4.8 assists per game while shooting 47.1% from the floor. He was injured during No. 2 seed Iowa State’s first-round contest against 15-seed Tennessee State. The Cyclones cruised to a 108-74 despite Jefferson’s early exit. Jefferson missed the second-round game against No. 7 seed Kentucky, but ISU managed fine, taking down the Wildcats 82-63 in St. Louis.
Friday’s Sweet 16 clash is set for a 10:20 p.m. ET tipoff time from the United Center in Chicago. The winner will advance to face No. 1 seed Michigan in the Elite 8.
What does Jefferson’s absence mean for tonight’s Sweet 16 showdown? Predict the winner of Iowa State vs. Tennessee at Kalshi!
Andrew writes about sports to fund his love of live music and collection of concert posters. He strongly endorses the Hall of Fame campaigns of Fred Taylor and Andruw Jones.
