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Iowa State Star Forward Jefferson Injured in NCAA Tournament Game

Friday, March 20, 2026 at 5:22 PM

All-American forward Joshua Jefferson suffered a left leg injury early in Iowa State's NCAA Tournament matchup against Tennessee State. The star player was seen returning to the bench on crutches wearing a walking boot, with his availability for future games uncertain.

ST. LOUIS — Iowa State’s standout forward Joshua Jefferson will not return to action in the Cyclones’ opening NCAA Tournament matchup against Tennessee State due to a lower left leg injury.

As the second half was about to commence, Jefferson made his way back to Iowa State’s bench using crutches and sporting a walking boot on his injured left leg.

The All-American player received a standing ovation from fans when he emerged from the tunnel during halftime, taking his place at the end of the Cyclones’ bench. At that point, Iowa State held a commanding 55-29 lead over Tennessee State. Whether Jefferson will be available for a possible second-round matchup against Kentucky on Saturday remains unknown.

The injury occurred early in the contest, just 2 minutes and 36 seconds after tipoff, following a successful driving layup by Jefferson. As he moved across the lane from left to right, Jefferson collapsed beneath the Iowa State basket after his shot found the net. His left foot rolled outward and bent at a sharp angle, causing him to fall to the court. Jefferson required assistance getting to his feet and was immediately taken for X-rays of his lower left leg and ankle area. He was unable to bear weight on the injured foot as he made his way to the locker room.

Jefferson entered Friday’s tournament game averaging 16.9 points, 7.6 rebounds and 4.9 assists per contest in his point forward role for the Cyclones.

Speaking to CBS Television during the halftime break, Iowa State head coach T.J. Otzelberger explained the impact of losing his star player. “For our team, Joshua (Jefferson) is such a huge part of everything we do,” Otzelberger said. “So we have a more guard-oriented attack when he’s not out there.”

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