Texas’s Lubbock — According to ESPN’s most recent player rankings, Texas Tech Red Raiders forward JT Toppin has risen to the top of collegiate basketball. His status as a top NCAA talent has been cemented with this accolade, which follows a fantastic sophomore season and his choice to stay for a junior year.
Toppin had an outstanding 2024–25 season, scoring 18.2 points and 9.4 rebounds per game while making 55.4% of his field goals. In addition to helping the Red Raiders reach the Elite Eight, his performance earned him the Big 12 Player of the Year and Newcomer of the Year awards, which is a first for the conference.
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Toppin decided to return to Texas Tech despite being predicted as a second-round choice in the 2025 NBA Draft. This decision was influenced by a sizable Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) contract that was allegedly worth approximately $4 million. This ruling highlights how college athletics is changing and how elite players can now find financial incentives to stay in school.
Texas Tech’s hopes have been significantly impacted by Toppin’s comeback. His inclusion on the roster has significantly improved the team’s preseason standings. The Red Raiders’ success in the upcoming season is anticipated to be largely dependent on his leadership and skill on the court.
Expectations are high as Toppin gets ready for his junior year. He is expected to be a strong contender for national player of the year and a preseason All-American. Supported by NIL chances, his decision to remain in college is indicative of a larger trend in which athletes are discovering new avenues for success in university athletics.