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JT Toppin Chooses Texas Tech Return, Secures $4 Million NIL Deal

The Big 12 Player of the Year forgoes the 2025 NBA Draft, highlighting how NIL opportunities are reshaping college basketball decisions.

Mar 29, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders forward JT Toppin (15) walks downcourt during the second half against the Florida Gators during the West Regional final of the 2025 NCAA tournament at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Eakin Howard-Imagn Images/File Photo
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Overview

  • JT Toppin announced his decision to return to Texas Tech for his junior season, turning down the opportunity to enter the 2025 NBA Draft.
  • Reports indicate Toppin will earn approximately $4 million in NIL deals next season, nearly doubling the highest publicly known NIL payment from last year.
  • Toppin’s standout sophomore season included Big 12 Player of the Year honors, second-team All-American recognition, and an Elite Eight run with Texas Tech.
  • His return is expected to elevate Texas Tech’s national profile, with the team projected to rank in the top 10 and Toppin a frontrunner for National Player of the Year honors.
  • This decision reflects a growing trend where lucrative NIL deals influence top college athletes to delay professional careers for financial and developmental benefits.