It has been more than a week since JT Toppin, a prominent forward for Texas Tech, was ruled out for the remainder of the season after sustaining a torn ACL in his right knee during a game against Arizona State.
Toppin issued his first statement since the injury occurred, ahead of No. 16 Texas Tech’s matchup with No. 4 Iowa State on Saturday evening.
“I express my gratitude for all the affection and encouragement during this challenging period. I am confident I will return stronger and improved because of it,” Toppin communicated via an Instagram post. “My thanks go to Texas Tech, Coach Mac (Grant McCasland), the support personnel, my teammates, and the fans for helping me perform at my best every day. I will serve as this team’s most dedicated supporter for the rest of the season.”
The Red Raiders have swiftly had to adapt to competing without their reigning Big 12 Player of the Year. Prior to his injury, Toppin led the nation in points scored, double-doubles (achieving double digits in two statistical categories), and rebounds. He also earned Big 12 Player of the Week honors on four separate occasions and was recognized on the prestigious Wooden Award and Naismith National Player of the Year watch lists. Texas Tech Head Coach Grant McCasland conveyed strong emotion when discussing Toppin during his pre-game press conference before Tech’s victory over Kansas State.
“JT Toppin is authentic, an exceptional competitor, and genuine. Being with him at the doctor’s office was truly devastating. It was a difficult couple of days,” McCasland stated two days after the news became public. “I sincerely believe this can make him more resilient, and that is what I conveyed to our squad. I cannot fully articulate it. I can only say that I believe with all my heart that there are no coincidences; this event has a purpose. While the purpose may be obscure in the immediate moment, given JT’s competitive spirit, he will emerge stronger from this experience. I hold this belief deeply, and I also think our team can benefit from this situation. I understand that may be hard for people to envision, but it will require JT’s involvement to come to fruition.”
Thus far, Tech has maintained its performance despite Toppin being sidelined. The Red Raiders have secured consecutive home victories, including their third-largest win of the season over Kansas State, and ended Cincinnati’s four-game winning streak on Tuesday. These results have propelled them into a three-way tie for second place in the Big 12 conference.
Texas Tech’s most significant challenge without Toppin will arise as the Red Raiders travel to face No. 4 Iowa State in Ames, Iowa, on Saturday evening. The Cyclones have claimed three wins in their last four contests, showcasing extensive talent across both offensive and defensive aspects of the game under Head Coach TJ Otzelberger.
Regardless, the Red Raiders will compete without Toppin on the court, but he will not be entirely absent from the team’s involvement. Toppin reiterated that he will continue to exert his influence, transitioning from one of the nation’s top players on the court to the most ardent supporter for Texas Tech throughout the remainder of the season.
The game between No. 16 Texas Tech and No. 4 Iowa State is scheduled for a 3 p.m. CST start and will be broadcast on CBS.
