While fans across the country have been captivated by the versatile brilliance of BYU’s Egor Demin — a 6’9″ Russian guard who has dazzled with court vision, range, and size — and the electrifying play of Kentucky’s Otega Oweh — an athletic two-way force who has been dominant in the SEC — it was Toppin’s commanding presence on both ends of the floor that raised the bar on what greatness looks like this season.
Toppin scored 43 points, 19 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 blocks in a nationally televised game against a top-10 opponent in front of a sold-out United Supermarkets Arena. Not only did he break the Texas Tech single-game scoring record, but he also became the first player in contemporary NCAA history to produce a 40-15-5 stat line in a conference game, let alone against a ranked club.
While fans across the country have been captivated by the versatile brilliance of BYU’s Egor Demin — a 6’9″ Russian guard who has dazzled with court vision, range, and size — and the electrifying play of Kentucky’s Otega Oweh — an athletic two-way force who has been dominant in the SEC — it was Toppin’s commanding presence on both ends of the floor that raised the bar on what greatness looks like this season.
In a season packed with amazing talent and emerging talents, one name has stolen the show: JT Toppin. The Texas Tech Red Raiders forward delivered a memorable performance, outperforming highly regarded phenoms Egor Demin of BYU and Otega Oweh of Kentucky in what has become a watershed moment in the 2025 collegiate basketball season.
“No disrespect to Demin or Oweh—those guys are elite,” remarked one NBA scout in attendance. But what Toppin accomplished tonight was different. “That was generational.”
Toppin’s career has also been spurred by his off-court humility and compassion. Earlier this year, he pledged $3.3 million from his NIL earnings to renovate a historic Lubbock property into a shelter for homeless youngsters. His leadership extends beyond basketball, making him more than just a popular player, but also a role model for aspiring athletes.
With March Madness approaching and the national spotlight mounting, JT Toppin’s star has never been brighter. While Demin and Oweh continue to leave their mark with great seasons, Toppin’s combination of production, purpose, and poise has cemented his place as the face of college basketball’s next age.
From Lubbock to the nation, JT Toppin is not simply competing; he is redefining greatness.