Nets 2026 NBA Draft grade for No. 28 pick Joshua Jefferson

The Brooklyn Nets were searching for building blocks in the 2026 NBA Draft. After using their highest selection in 16 years on Louisville guard Mikel Brown Jr. at No. 6, the Nets grabbed Iowa State forward Joshua Jefferson at No. 28.

Jefferson broke out during his senior season with the Cyclones, earning first-team All-Big 12 and consensus second-team All-American honors. The 6-foot-8 forward averaged 16.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.6 steals on .474/.345/.700 shooting splits. He was the nation’s only player to average those marks on such efficiency.

Jefferson’s ball-handling and passing ability in the frontcourt caught the attention of NBA scouts throughout the season.

Nets’ grade for No. 28 pick Joshua Jefferson

The 22-year-old has a strong argument for the best passing big man in this year’s class, averaging 5.6 assists per 36 minutes with a 1.88 assist-to-turnover ratio. He’s an elite processor who plays at a deliberate pace and makes quick passes to capitalize on defensive rotations. Whether as a connective playmaker or on-ball advantage creator, his 0.5-second decision-making kept the ball moving for Iowa State’s offense.

Three minutes of Joshua Jefferson dimes for you. pic.twitter.com/SV9FPUrm2k

— Erik Slater (@ErikSlater_) June 25, 2026

Jefferson possesses unique ball-handling ability for a player his size, allowing him to grab-and-go off rebounds or attack mismatches in the halfcourt. His size and athletic fluidity also allowed him to make an impact as a rebounder and defender in college.

Despite his high feel for the game, there are concerns about Jefferson’s offensive fit at the next level. The Las Vegas native shot just 31.5 percent from three across four college seasons. However, he posted his best three-point season as a senior, shooting 34.5 percent on 3.1 attempts per game. He’ll need to build upon that improvement to be effective in a complementary role with Brooklyn.

Jefferson’s average athleticism raises questions about his viability as a shot creator and perimeter defender at the NBA level. He’s also an old prospect for a rebuilding team, as he’ll turn 23 at the start of his rookie season. However, the Nets are attempting to take a step back towards relevancy and need contributors wherever they can find them.

A player with Jefferson’s size, strength, IQ, and dribble-pass-shoot ability is well worth a late first-round investment.

Grade: B+

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