Will he be able to go or not? That's what Iowa State fans everywhere are wondering when it comes to All-American big man Joshua Jefferson, as he suffered a sprained ankle last week and has been inching his way back.
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Jefferson wasn't able to play in the win over Kentucky, but the Cyclones had no issues ending Mark Pope's season. Now, though, he's a game-time decision to take on Tennessee in the Sweet 16. While his status is up in the air, the fact that Jefferson was spotted at practice putting up shots and not donning a boot sure has people talking:
I don’t know if he’s playing, but Joshua Jefferson is out of a boot and very much alive! pic.twitter.com/Bq4zEjesiy
— Chris Williams (@ChrisMWilliams) March 26, 2026
Is Joshua Jefferson playing vs. Tennessee: Iowa State star a game-time decision
The fact that Jefferson was able to suit up and be a limited participant for practice indeed gives fans some hope that he'll be able to play. There's a tough matchup coming, as the Vols and Rick Barnes are no stranger to success in the Big Dance.
Barnes and Co. are hoping to reach the Final Four for the first time in program history, but Iowa State is ready to have a say in things. In order for Iowa State to post a convincing victory, there's no doubt that Jefferson will be needed to make sure that happens.
If he doesn't play, though, there's still a strong belief that the Cyclones will still have enough firepower to overcome the injury adversity and get things done. Still, having Jefferson on the floor would calm plenty of nerves for so many people out there.
On the season, Jefferson has been tremendous with the ball in his hands, averaging more than 16 points and seven rebounds per contest. He's a total stud for T.J. Otzelberger and his staff. Will he be healthy enough for the highly-anticipated Sweet 16 matchup? We'll find out soon enough, but things seem to be moving in the right direction here.