2026 NBA Draft Scouting Report for Joshua Jefferson

Small improvements in various areas created enough versatility for Joshua Jefferson to build NBA interest.

He made strides with his shooting, passing and defense to become one of the nation's more well-rounded high-major forwards.

Age and athletic limitations still kept the NBA buzz around Jefferson in check for most of the year. But after three seasons under the radar, he used his last to get himself in a position to be drafted.

Joshua Jefferson Highlights

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Essential Facts, Stats, Combine Measurements

College: Iowa State | Position: PF | Age: 22 | Height: 6'7.75" | Weight: 246 lbs | Wingspan: 6'10.75" | PPG: 16.4 | RPG: 7.4 | APG: 4.8 | BPG: 0.8 | SPG: 1.6 | FG%: 47.1 | 3PT%: 34.5 | FT%: 70.0

Realistic Pro Comparison: Kyle Anderson

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Jefferson will try to mirror Kyle Anderson's success, which he achieved with skill, IQ and versatility to overcome very athletic limitations.

These are jack-of-all-trades or glue guys who can play different roles. They aren't exciting scorers or highlight-reel players.

Strengths

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Strength 1: Post scoring

Though Jefferson won't be a commanding post player in the NBA, he's comfortable and skilled operating around the key and back to the basket. It's his best area for self-creation.

Strength 2: Playmaking feel

Jefferson has excellent court awareness and consistently makes smart decisions with the basketball. He registered a 27.7 assist percentage, a number scouts love to see from frontcourt players. He sees the floor well for a forward, creating opportunities for teammates through quick reads and unselfish passing.

Strength 3: Defensive versatility

Jefferson is a highly adaptable defender who can guard multiple positions thanks to his size, mobility, and instincts. He impacts games with his ability to switch assignments, disrupt passing lanes, and make plays off the ball.

Weaknesses

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Weakness 1: Shooting

Though he made some improvements, Jefferson's jump shot remains a work in progress, particularly from three-point range. He also missed 22 of his 26 pull-up attempts. Defenders are often willing to give him space until he proves he can make outside shots at a consistent rate.

Weakness 2: Self-creation

He is more effective at attacking advantages than creating them himself. Jefferson can struggle at times to generate clean scoring opportunities against set defenses when forced to rely on isolation moves.

Weakness 3: Athleticism

Jefferson tested poorly during athletic tests. He doesn't possess elite burst or vertical pop compared to some NBA-caliber wings. This can limit his ability to consistently finish through length and athleticism at the next level. He shot 39.2 percent on drives and was super inefficient scoring in ball-screen situations