Joshua Jefferson Hovers on NBA Draft First-Round Edge as Mock Drafts Place Him Between 30th and 34th

Context Iowa State’s Joshua Jefferson entered the 2025‑26 season as a fringe prospect but rose up draft boards after a strong junior campaign. He, along with teammates Tamin Lipsey and Milan Momcilovic, is slated to attend the NBA Draft Combine, a key step for improving draft stock. The combine will be his first chance to demonstrate health after the early‑tournament ankle injury that sidelined him against Tennessee State.

Key Facts - ESPN’s Jeremy Woo projects Jefferson to be taken 30th overall by the Dallas Mavericks, a selection that would come via the Oklahoma City Thunder’s pick. - Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman has him going 34th overall to the Sacramento Kings. - The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie (subscription) places him at 33rd overall with the Brooklyn Nets. - Jefferson suffered an ankle injury minutes into Iowa State’s Round of 64 game versus Tennessee State, ending his NCAA tournament participation.

What It Means The range of 30th‑34th puts Jefferson on the cusp of the first round; a pick at 30 would secure a first‑round contract, while 34 lands him in the early second round. Teams value his shooting and size, but the injury raises questions about durability, making combine workouts and individual workouts critical. His performance in drills, interviews, and any private workouts will likely determine whether he climbs into the first round or settles in the second.

What to watch next Watch how Jefferson performs at the NBA Draft Combine and any subsequent team workouts, as those outcomes will shape his final draft slot and contract prospects.