“Spotlight on a Star: Netflix to Premiere Documentary on Former Texas Tech Standout JT Toppin” BLACKSBURG, Va. — April….

Spotlight on a Star: Netflix to Premiere Documentary on Former Texas Tech Standout JT Toppin”

BLACKSBURG, Va. — April 19, 2025

Basketball fans across the country are in for a cinematic slam dunk this fall as Netflix has announced the upcoming release of a feature documentary chronicling the electrifying collegiate career of former Texas Tech standout JT Toppin. Titled “Above the Rim: The JT Toppin Story,” the film is set to premiere on October 15, 2025, and is already generating buzz as one of the most anticipated sports documentaries of the year.

The documentary will take viewers on a compelling journey through Toppin’s remarkable rise from a promising high school recruit to becoming one of the most dynamic forwards in college basketball. Known for his explosive athleticism, tenacious rebounding, and highlight-reel blocks, Toppin left an undeniable mark during his time with the Texas Tech Red Raiders.

“JT’s story is one of perseverance, humility, and heart,” said executive producer Monica Caldwell of High Elevation Films. “He played the game with passion and gave his all, both on and off the court. We wanted to capture not just the athlete, but the human being behind the jersey.”

Toppin, who suited up for the Red Raiders from 2023 to 2025, quickly became a fan favorite and a national name. During his sophomore season, he averaged a double-double and helped lead Texas Tech to a Sweet 16 appearance, reigniting a program that had been searching for stability in the post-Chris Beard era.

The film will feature exclusive interviews with JT Toppin, his family, teammates, coaches, and analysts, offering an inside look at his development as both a player and a leader. It also includes behind-the-scenes footage from practices, locker room moments, and game day rituals—giving fans unprecedented access to the grind of a college athlete.

Texas Tech head coach Grant McCasland, who coached Toppin during his Red Raiders tenure, praised the project and his former star’s legacy.

“JT was the kind of player you dream of coaching,” McCasland said. “He brought energy, toughness, and an unselfish spirit that made everyone around him better. What he did for this program in such a short time will never be forgotten.”

What makes “Above the Rim” especially powerful is its focus on the obstacles Toppin overcame. From early doubts about his size and role to battling injuries and the pressure of carrying a storied program, the documentary captures his mental and emotional growth as much as his physical development.

Currently preparing for the NBA Draft, Toppin shared his excitement about the documentary on social media:
“This film means a lot to me. It’s not just about basketball—it’s about my journey, my family, my school, and every person who believed in me. I hope it inspires the next kid who’s dreaming big.”

The release of the film comes at a time when the stories of college athletes are gaining more attention than ever. With NIL deals, transfers, and increased media exposure reshaping the landscape, Netflix aims to spotlight athletes like Toppin who exemplify character and determination amid a changing game.

The documentary premiere will be accompanied by a red-carpet event in Lubbock, Texas, and a limited campus screening tour that includes stops at Texas Tech, UNM (where Toppin’s brother once played), and other Big 12 schools.

As anticipation builds toward the October 15 release, “Above the Rim: The JT Toppin Story” is more than just a film—it’s a celebration of a rising star whose impact goes far beyond the scoreboard.

With his college career now behind him and an NBA future ahead, JT Toppin’s story is just getting started—and soon, the whole world will be watching.