In the world of college basketball, few players have been as dynamic as JT Toppin from Texas Tech. Averaging an impressive 21 points, 11 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks, and a steal per game, Toppin was a force to be reckoned with until a fateful game against Arizona State.
During a fast break, Toppin went up for a layup, collided with a defender, and landed awkwardly. The result?
A season-ending injury that left fans and the team reeling.
The big question now is what the future holds for Toppin and Texas Tech. Prior to the injury, there were talks of a deal that would make Toppin the highest-paid player in men's college basketball through NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) agreements. However, with a torn ACL, the situation has become more complex.
The case of Jayden Quaintance at Kentucky looms large in this scenario. Quaintance, who suffered a similar injury while playing for Arizona State last year, faced challenges upon his return.
After a brief stint back on the court, knee issues sidelined him again, highlighting the risks of rushing recovery. Kentucky had significant NIL investments tied up with Quaintance, valued between $1.9 and $2.2 million, which now sits on the bench when the team needs him most.
Toppin's NIL earnings were reportedly around $2.8 million this season, with expectations of an increase next year. But can Texas Tech afford to allocate such funds to a player whose availability is uncertain? The experience with Quaintance suggests caution.
While Toppin's talent is undeniable, and some team may take the gamble, the financial commitment might not be as substantial as initially planned. The stakes are high, and the decision will likely weigh heavily on past experiences with injured players.
College basketball insider Kevin Sweeney encapsulates the dilemma: both sides were on track to make Toppin the highest-paid player next season, but the injury changes everything. Can such an investment be justified, especially with the lessons learned from similar situations?
The coming months will be critical as Texas Tech navigates this challenging situation, balancing the potential rewards with the inherent risks.