​Former Iowa State forward Joshua Jefferson, the 28th pick in the 2026 NBA draft, has signed his rookie-scale contract with the Brooklyn Nets, the team announced. He will earn $2,969,520 next season, according to Spotrac. Jefferson was a consensus second-team All-American, averaging 16.4 points, 7.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.6 steals while shooting 34.5 percent from beyond the arc. He ranked sixth in the nation in box plus-minus (plus-13.0) and 19th in win shares (6.1). Standing 6-foot-8, Jefferson was one of only 13 players since 2000 to average at least 16 points, seven rebounds, 4.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game. He also became the first player in Big 12 history to record multiple triple-doubles in conference play, achieving the feat on January 2 and January 20.
Brooklyn acquired Jefferson’s draft rights, along with three-time All-Star Julius Randle, in a four-team deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves. The trade, agreed upon on June 22, was officially completed on Friday, paving the way for Jefferson to sign his rookie contract. Because the deal had not yet closed, Jefferson was unable to play or practice with the Nets during the California Classic last week, but he made his debut on Saturday in Las Vegas, posting nine points and two steals in 26 minutes of action.
At 22 years old, Jefferson arrived in Brooklyn with high expectations, thanks to his scoring ability, rebounding prowess and overall versatility. He will likely receive extended playing time as the Nets continue their games in the desert schedule, including a Tuesday matchup against Sacramento at 6 p.m. EDT, broadcast on Prime Video.
This report originally appeared on Rookie Wire and notes that the Nets signed Joshua Jefferson after completing their trade with the Timberwolves. The move marks a significant addition for Brooklyn as they retool their roster and look to maximize Jefferson’s potential in his first NBA season.