JT Toppin: Brother | Draft | Draft Projection | Height | Injury

Jadyn “JT” Toppin is quickly emerging as one of the most compelling college basketball stars in the NCAA landscape. From his breakthrough freshman season to All-American honors and NBA draft conversations, Toppin’s trajectory has captivated scouts, analysts, and fans alike. This extensive profile explores his personal background, draft considerations, physical measurements, injury status, and more — giving you everything you need to know about one of basketball’s rising prospects.

Table of Contents

1. Early Life & Family

2. College Career Highlights

3. Is JT Toppin Related to Obi or Jacob Toppin?

4. Physical Profile: Height, Weight & Athleticism

5. NBA Draft: History, Decisions & Projections

6. Injury History & Current Status

7. Strengths & Weaknesses as a Prospect

8. NIL Influence & Career Decisions

9. Future Outlook & What’s Next

10. FAQs About JT Toppin

1. Early Life & Family

Hometown and Background

JT Toppin was born on June 14, 2005, in Dallas, Texas, and grew up excelling in basketball from an early age. He attended Faith Family Academy in Oak Cliff, where he became a standout prospect and helped his team win back-to-back state championships.

Family and Brother Clarification

A common question among basketball fans revolves around the Toppin surname. JT is not related to NBA players Obi Toppin or Jacob Toppin, despite the shared last name and position similarities. Both Obi and Jacob played college basketball and have had professional careers; however, there is no familial connection to JT.

His mother, Naomi Toppin, has been acknowledged in reports as a supportive presence in his life, though detailed public information about his family remains limited compared to higher-profile NBA prospects.

2. College Career Highlights

JT Toppin’s college journey began at the University of New Mexico, where he made an immediate impact as a freshman. He averaged double-figure points and near-double-digit rebounds, earning Mountain West Freshman of the Year honors.

After one season at New Mexico, Toppin entered the transfer portal and chose to continue his collegiate career at Texas Tech University — a move that significantly boosted his national profile. During his first season with Texas Tech, he earned consensus second-team All-American honors, Big 12 Player of the Year, Big 12 Newcomer of the Year, and First-Team All-Big 12 recognition.

In the ongoing 2025–26 season, he has maintained his dominance, leading the Big 12 in rebounds and ranking among the top scorers nationally — showcasing his complete skill set on both ends of the floor.

3. Is JT Toppin Related to Obi or Jacob Toppin?

Fans sometimes wonder whether JT has basketball lineage tied to other Toppins in the sport. Here’s the factual breakdown:

• Obi Toppin – NBA player (drafted in 2020) and former Dayton star.

• Jacob Toppin – NBA G League/NBA player and former Kentucky standout.

Despite the shared last name and similar physical profiles, JT Toppin is not biologically related to either Obi or Jacob. This clarification helps separate JT’s identity and accomplishments from assumptions tied to NBA relatives.

4. Physical Profile: Height, Weight & Athleticism

In basketball, measurable traits matter — and JT Toppin possesses the size and athleticism that draw NBA interest.

• Official Height: 6′9″ (6 feet 9 inches)

• Weight: Approximately 230 pounds

• Position: Power Forward / Versatile Frontcourt Player

His combination of size, strength, and mobility allows Toppin to excel as a rebounder, slasher, and interior scorer. Analysts have noted his physical tools are on par with many NBA bigs, especially in transition and defensive rotations.

5. NBA Draft: History, Decisions & Projections

JT Toppin’s draft history is one of strategic decisions and evolving projections.

Draft Consideration in 2024

After his standout freshman season at New Mexico, Toppin declared for the 2024 NBA Draft and participated in the NBA Draft Combine — a key showcase for prospects. However, he ultimately withdrew from the draft and chose to transfer to Texas Tech instead.

Draft Projection Heading Into 2025

Heading into the 2025 NBA Draft, Toppin was projected variably:

• ESPN ranked him around No. 45 on their big board.

• CBS Sports projected him as high as No. 15 in mock rankings.

That range reflects both his talent and the uncertainty scouts have about positional fit, shooting range, and long-term development. Ultimately, Toppin chose not to enter the 2025 draft, opting to continue his college career.

Current Draft Outlook

As of the 2025–26 season, JT Toppin remains an intriguing draft prospect — potentially a late first round to second round pick depending on team fit, development, and performance in postseason tournaments. His continued growth in scoring and rebounding keeps him on NBA radars.

6. Injury History & Current Status

A major factor in any prospect’s journey is health. Fortunately, JT Toppin has not suffered any significant injuries that have derailed his college career or draft considerations.

His college seasons at both New Mexico and Texas Tech have been marked by consistent availability and productivity, with no notable long-term injuries reported in mainstream coverage or team reports.

While all athletes carry the risk of future injuries due to the physical nature of basketball, Toppin’s injury history to date is clean, and he continues to play at a high level without missing significant time.

7. Strengths & Weaknesses as a Prospect

Strengths

• Size & Length: 6′9″ forward with NBA-level physical profile.

• Rebounding: Elite rebounder at the collegiate level.

• Scoring Versatility: Can score inside and improve outside shooting.

• Motor/Work Ethic: Known for effort and competitiveness.

Areas for Growth

• Shooting Consistency: NBA scouts want further range.

• Playmaking: Additional ball skills could boost value.

• Defensive Adaptability: Translating college defense to NBA schemes will be key.

8. NIL Influence & Career Decisions

One factor that impacted Toppin’s decision to return to college in 2025 was Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities.

Reports indicate that his NIL income — reportedly in the multi-million dollar range — played a role in his choice to stay at Texas Tech rather than enter the NBA at that time. These earnings provide financial stability while also enabling further development before turning pro.

This trend reflects a broader shift in college basketball, where elite players may choose extended collegiate play rather than early professional entry — especially when NIL deals make it financially appealing.

9. Future Outlook & What’s Next

Looking ahead, JT Toppin’s future is full of potential:

• March Madness & National Honors: He continues to be considered for national awards and All-American lists.

• NBA Draft Positioning: Continued consistency could push him into consideration as a first-round draft pick.

• Professional Readiness: A strong postseason, improved perimeter skills, and defensive versatility will elevate his draft stock.

Toppin’s journey from a state championships performer in Dallas to a nationally recognized college star underscores his work ethic and potential.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How tall is JT Toppin?

A: He stands 6 feet 9 inches (6′9″) tall.

Q2: Is JT Toppin related to Obi Toppin or Jacob Toppin?

A: No, JT Toppin is not biologically related to Obi or Jacob Toppin.

Q3: What teams has JT Toppin played for?

A: He began at New Mexico Lobos and currently plays for the Texas Tech Red Raiders.

Q4: Has he declared for the NBA Draft?

A: He tested the waters in 2024 but withdrew, and did not enter the 2025 draft.

Q5: Does JT Toppin have injuries?

A: There are no significant injuries in his official college history to date.

Q6: What is his draft projection?

A: Projections vary, but he’s considered a potential late first round to second round NBA prospect pending further performance.