*** Official Tennessee State vs #6 IOWA STATE Game(Day) Thread ***

[Cyched]

People are overreacting based on what happened with Gilbert last year. He played on that bad groin much of 2025, and not only did it never get better, it probably got worse to the point where he couldn't go anymore, so it was time to hang it up and think about his pro career (and I don't fault him for that).

It's too early to assume that JJ is in the same boat because we don't know the details of the injury - all we know is he's doubtful to return today. JJ is a dog and is the kind of dog that wants to see this through. I would say the only way he doesn't return is if the injury is so severe that recovery puts him out, or if playing on the injury would make it worse. Otherwise - I think he wants this

If it’s not fractured (massive if) he’ll want to go as soon as he feels like it.

 

[flycy]

We are pretty guard heavy now too. Hasn't played yet but Kelderman has experience as well at least. So 6 guards

If Kelderman is in for anything but garbage time we are in trouble like last year. Don't see it.

 

[Drew0311]

Wish Buchanon knew how to get position for the box out down low. He is always trying to swat it from behind when the other player boxed him out the correct way

 

[Cydewayz]

Tj playing chess....Dom Nelson buried on the.bench...no scout on him ..then bring him out for the tourney! Lol

 

[Texbudman]

No need to return Jefferson today but there’s a zero chance he comes back. His career at Iowa state is done. That ankle turn was horrid

I refuse to believe it until it’s official

 

[Cyched]

Nelson made his FTs!!!

 

[BillBrasky4Cy]

Just hear me out…I know a guy.

View attachment 169293

You ever see the version when he doesn't rub his leg?

 

[Cyhig]

Nelson can make free throws. Hey - we might be better off after all

/s

 

[interrobang]

If Kelderman is in for anything but garbage time we are in trouble like last year. Don't see it.

Not saying he needs to play 20 mins. But can control the ball and has experience at least.

 

[jdoggivjc]

If it’s not fractured (massive if) he’ll want to go as soon as he feels like it.

I think if it was fractured (massive if), they wouldn't be letting him move around, even on crutches, at least not without an aircast or a boot on it.

 

[xr4ticlone]

Losing an all American sucks....BUT, as you said, adjusting to not having him is looking ok (vs a team not as good as Kentucky), but maybe others can fill the stats he e normally would.

Maybe this was always the plan?

Is JJ faking?

 

[CY88CE11]

Buchanan going for a single double the hard way.

 

[cyclo120]

Nelson minutes are interesting. Obviously Jefferson injury unique but other spots with foul trouble, offensive struggles he could have been used. Clearly something has changed in practice.

 

[xr4ticlone]

I think if it was fractured (massive if), they wouldn't be letting him move around, even on crutches, at least not without an aircast or a boot on it.

Buddy said CW is reporting not broken.

 

[cyclones500]

Buchanan has made some excellent passes this game.

 

[NYCYFan]

This is a good preview of what the team might look like next year without JJ and Lipsey in for a large chunk of the half assuming that Milan comes back

 

[interrobang]

Not sure I would have guessed breaking 50 in a half without JJ

 

[CycloneSpinning]

I think that’s our best option.

Heise is actually capable of a lot of what Jefferson does. Jefferson plays smaller than his body would suggest he should. If he steps up, Batemon and Toure keep doing what they are doing, and Pleta establishes himself in the paint…I think we’re ok through the next game at least. I’m most concerned about a getting by Michigan.

 

[BillBrasky4Cy]

LOL how did that go in.

 

[BillBrasky4Cy]

Listen, I love JJ as much as the next guy but our ball movement that half was supreme. We ain't dead boys!