For decades, top college basketball players have wrestled with the pivotal choice between staying in school or jumping to the pros. Icons like LeBron James and Kobe Bryant bypassed college altogether, while others—like JJ Redick and Damian Lillard—chose to maximize their college careers across four full years.
But everything shifted with the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rules in 2022. These changes opened the door for student-athletes to earn substantial income during their college years, turning what was once a financial sacrifice into a potentially lucrative opportunity.
JT Toppin’s NIL Deal Fuels Decision to Stay at Texas Tech for Another Season
One of the most notable examples of NIL’s impact is JT Toppin’s recent choice to stay at Texas Tech for another season. Following a strong sophomore campaign, Toppin announced his return with a simple “I’m Back” on Instagram—a nod to Michael Jordan’s iconic phrase.
Reports indicate he’s set to earn $4 million in NIL money for the 2025–26 season, a sum that exceeds the average salary of many NBA draft picks. His decision underscores how college now offers not just experience, but real professional-level earnings.
JT ToppinToppin began his college career with the New Mexico Lobos before transferring to Texas Tech in 2024. He briefly entertained entering the NBA Draft, even receiving a combine invite, but ultimately chose to play “one more game” in college.
His stock was already high, with comparisons drawn to DaRon Holmes II, the 22nd pick in the 2024 Draft, whom Toppin will surpass in earnings. Instead of risking uncertainty, he opted for a secure, lucrative college season.
Toppin Shines in Big 12, Eyes Lottery Pick and NCAA Championship Glory
Despite switching conferences, Toppin thrived in the Big 12, one of the toughest divisions in college basketball. His accolades included Big 12 Player of the Year, All-Region, and All-American honors. He averaged 18.2 points and 9.4 rebounds during the season, with even better stats during March Madness.
His on-court dominance silenced any doubts about his ability to compete at a higher level and made his return to college both a financial and athletic win.
Toppin’s NBA aspirations remain firmly intact. Mock drafts had him rising from a mid-second-round projection to potentially a mid-first-round pick. With another strong season, he could very well push into lottery pick territory, like his older brother Obi Toppin, who was drafted 8th overall in 2020. Staying in college gives JT a shot at more exposure, improved draft standing, and even a possible NCAA championship—all while building his brand.
Texas Tech’s head coach, Grant McCasland, has mixed feelings about Toppin’s return. While he’s thrilled to coach such talent again, he admits that ideally, Toppin would’ve left—because that would’ve meant they won a national championship.
McCasland’s priority is to develop Toppin into the best version of himself, setting him up for NBA stardom. The coach remains optimistic, hoping the next season will be the breakout year that launches Toppin to even greater heights
