Texas Tech sophomore forward JT Toppin has been selected by Big 12 coaches as the league’s player and newcomer of the year. The awards were announced Monday.

JT Toppin, a 6-foot-9 forward, is rapidly growing into a well-known figure in college basketball for his on-court prowess and his high NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) value. His growth from a standout freshman at the University of New Mexico to a significant player at Texas Tech demonstrates his growing athletic and financial prominence.

JT Toppin was named player and newcomer of the year to headline the Texas Tech basketball team's all-Big 12 honors.

JT Toppin had 25 points and 11 rebounds, and No. 9 Texas Tech pulled away from Arizona State for an 85-57 victory in the regular-season finale for both teams.

A few weeks ago, while preparing to be the sideline reporter on an Arizona State-Texas Tech game, I was asked by a producer whom I believed should be the Big 12 Player of the Year. I had to think for a second.

JT Toppin posted his 14th double-double of the season with 25 points and 11 rebounds in No. 9 Texas Tech's 85-57 victory Saturday night over Arizona State at Tempe, Ariz., in the regular-season finale for both teams.