JT Toppin Reestablishes Himself as a Top Player Following Season Debut with Texas Tech
In his first game since a lower body injury, JT Toppin led Texas Tech to a strong victory against Sam Houston, showcasing significant improvements in his game.
LUBBOCK, Texas – After a delayed start to the season due to a lower body injury, Texas Tech forward JT Toppin made a statement in the Red Raiders’ 98-77 win against Sam Houston. Toppin scored 31 points and grabbed 14 rebounds while demonstrating notable improvements in his passing game.
Toppin opened with a quick layup just 16 seconds in, showcasing his readiness for the 2025-26 season. Despite a competitive first half, Toppin’s impact was undeniable, leading to fatigue for the Bearkats.
“I was a little winded, just first game, but it was exciting to get back out there and share the court with my teammates.”
Translation: I was slightly exhausted since it was my first game, but returning to the court alongside my teammates felt thrilling.
In addition to his scoring, Toppin provided essential playmaking, notching four assists—matching his season high from 2025. Texas Tech’s coach Grant McCasland expressed confidence in Toppin’s growth, stating, “He’s gotten better and will keep getting better.”
As expectations rise for Texas Tech this season, the blend of veterans and newcomers like Christian Anderson, Donovan Atwell, and LeJuan Watts suggests a promising future. With a challenging matchup against Illinois on the horizon, Toppin’s performance may be just the beginning of what this roster can achieve.
