Texas Tech’s JT Toppin Undergoes ACL Surgery Ahead of March Madness
Texas Tech forward JT Toppin underwent ACL surgery on Thursday, March 19, 2026. Insider Nathan Giese posted on X that Toppin had the procedure and was not with the team in Tampa.
Timing and immediate context
The operation came one day before Texas Tech’s first-round March Madness game. The Red Raiders were scheduled to face Akron on Friday in Tampa, Florida.
Toppin’s absence leaves the roster without its top frontcourt option. The team traveled without him.
How the injury happened
Toppin injured his knee in mid-February against Arizona State. He went down while driving to the basket with about six minutes remaining.
The injury was diagnosed as a torn ACL and ended his season. He is 20 years old.
Team performance after the injury
Texas Tech won its first three games without Toppin. The team then lost three straight to finish the season.
Those defeats included losses to TCU and BYU, and a loss to Iowa State in the Big 12 quarterfinals. The setback affected the Red Raiders’ momentum heading into March Madness.
Season numbers and honors
Toppin posted strong statistics during the season. He averaged 21.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game.
He also averaged 2.1 assists, 1.7 blocks, and 1.4 steals. He shot 54.8 percent from the field in 25 games. His minutes averaged 34.8 per contest.
Despite missing the final weeks, he earned a first-team All-American selection. He is a Dallas native.
Coach reaction and outlook
Coach Grant McCasland praised Toppin’s character and competitiveness. McCasland said the injury was painfully emotional for the player and the program.
The coach expressed confidence in Toppin’s long-term recovery. He called the situation difficult but said there is reason for hope.
Offseason decisions and contract
Before the season in Lubbock, Toppin chose not to declare for the NBA Draft. He instead signed a reported $4 million deal to return to Texas Tech last offseason.
What’s next
Toppin will begin rehabilitation after ACL surgery. The timetable for a full return was not announced.
Filmogaz.com will follow developments and provide updates on his recovery and the team’s tournament progress.
