Texas Tech Star Toppin Exits Injured in Loss to ASU

Reigning Big 12 Player of the Year hurt knee in second half of 72-67 defeat

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Texas Tech's J.T. Toppin, the reigning Big 12 Player of the Year, injured his right knee and did not play the last six-plus minutes of the 13th-ranked Red Raiders' 72-67 upset loss to Arizona State on Tuesday in Tempe, Ariz. Toppin had 20 points and eight rebounds before exiting, and his absence allowed Arizona State to pull away late for the victory.

Why it matters

Toppin's injury is a major concern for Texas Tech, as he is the team's leading scorer and rebounder. The Red Raiders are in the hunt for an NCAA Tournament berth, so Toppin's health will be crucial down the stretch. Arizona State's win is a significant upset over a ranked opponent and could boost their own postseason hopes.

The details

Toppin fell hard to the ground while driving to the basket and immediately clutched his right knee. He was helped to the bench and then to the locker room, and did not return to the game. Arizona State scored the final six points of an 8-0 run after Toppin's injury to take a 67-56 lead, and held on for the victory despite a late Texas Tech rally.

  • Toppin was injured with around 6 minutes remaining in the game.
  • Arizona State went on an 8-0 run after Toppin's injury to take a 67-56 lead with 3:28 left.

The players

J.T. Toppin

The reigning Big 12 Player of the Year for Texas Tech, who had 20 points and 8 rebounds before exiting the game with a knee injury.

Maurice Odum

The leading scorer for Arizona State with 23 points in the upset win over Texas Tech.

Christian Anderson

The Texas Tech guard who scored 18 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists in the loss.

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What they’re saying

“We must wait and see the extent of Toppin's injury, but it was a big blow for us tonight. He's our best player and we rely on him heavily.”

— Mark Adams, Texas Tech Head Coach (statenews.net)

What’s next

Texas Tech will await further evaluation on Toppin's knee injury to determine his status for upcoming games. Arizona State will look to build on this upset win as they continue their push for a postseason berth.

The takeaway

Toppin's injury is a major concern for Texas Tech, as he is the team's best player and a key to their NCAA Tournament hopes. Arizona State's upset win shows they can compete with top teams when healthy, and provides a boost to their own postseason aspirations.