Joshua Jefferson’s Iowa State Cyclones recorded one of their best seasons under head coach T. J. Otzelberger. They went 28-7 overall, 12-6 in the conference, and were selected for the March Madness showdown.
In the first round, they played the Tennessee State Tigers and had a comfortable outing, winning the game 108-74. Killyan Toure led the team with 25 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists, shooting 8-12 from the field.
Toure taking over the game was a blessing for the Cyclones because their star forward Joshua Jefferson got injured early in the game. Jefferson only played three minutes and scored two points and a rebound. Jefferson suffered an ankle injury and had to leave the game early.
The problem isn’t over yet for Iowa State. They are going to face the Kentucky Wildcats in the second round matchup tomorrow at Enterprise Center in St. Louis. The Cyclones might have to play without Jefferson in the lineup.
Jeff Goodman recently reported that the forward is “unlikely” to lace up tomorrow for the Cyclones.
“Iowa State’s Joshua Jefferson (ankle) is unlikely to play tomorrow against Kentucky,” he wrote. “Jefferson will continue to receive treatment prior to the game, but the chances of him being able to play against the Wildcats on Sunday are slim.”
Jefferson spoke about his injury on Saturday. He revealed that his ankle was still sore, but it was better than before, and he was making progress.
“It’s a little sore, but I was feeling much better this morning than I was before I fell asleep,” he said. “Taking off (of practice) for today, so out today, and then I’ll see how it feels in the morning.”
He has been averaging 16.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 1.6 steals per game while shooting over 47% from the field. If he doesn’t play tomorrow, Toure and Co. will have to carry the team against a strong opponent.
Cyclones coach T.J. Otzelberger on Joshua Jefferson’s Injury
During his interaction with the media, Jefferson was asked what it would take for him to play on Sunday. He said that he needs to feel like he’s ready for the game. Being 100% ready is his topmost priority right now.
Jefferson has set a standard for himself, and if he steps on the court, he wants to deliver for his team. So, if he doesn’t feel ready, fans will not see him on Sunday. Head coach T.J. Otzelberger said that the team is evaluating its star player.
“Right now, we’re continuing to evaluate,” he said. “It appears unlikely, but you never want to rule anything out, so we’ll just continue to do what we can in his best interest, and we’ll be prepared to go either way.”
Otzelberger’s comment indicates that Jefferson is doubtful at best for the next game against Kentucky.
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