LOCKED DOWN: Top 5-Star Best Guard JT Toppin Decommits From Texas Tech Raiders, Flip Commitment to Duke Blues with 3-Years Deal After Rejecting Notre Dame and Ohio……

LOCKED DOWN: Top 5-Star Guard JT Toppin Decommits From Texas Tech Raiders, Flips to Duke Blue Devils on 3-Year Deal After Rejecting Notre Dame and Ohio State

In a shocking turn of events on the college basketball recruiting trail, five-star guard JT Toppin has officially decommitted from Texas Tech and announced his commitment to the Duke Blue Devils. Toppin, one of the most electrifying talents in the 2025 recruiting class, has signed a three-year commitment deal with the Blue Devils, rejecting final-hour pushes from Notre Dame and Ohio State.

The 6-foot-6 combo guard from Albuquerque, New Mexico, had previously committed to the Texas Tech Red Raiders in what was considered a major recruiting win for the Big 12 powerhouse. However, after weeks of speculation and behind-the-scenes movement, Toppin made it official via social media, releasing a statement that thanked Texas Tech for their support but expressing his excitement to join Duke’s storied program.

“I want to thank the coaching staff and fans at Texas Tech for believing in me,” Toppin wrote. “But after serious consideration with my family and mentors, I’ve decided to flip my commitment to Duke University. The tradition, the opportunity to develop, and the vision they have for me are everything I’m looking for.”

Toppin’s game is defined by his explosive athleticism, elite two-way play, and court vision. He has drawn comparisons to former NBA stars like Brandon Roy and Jrue Holiday for his poise, versatility, and leadership. At just 18, he’s already a dominant force on both ends of the floor, capable of guarding multiple positions and leading the offense with ease.

Sources close to the situation say the decision came down to three programs in the final weeks: Duke, Notre Dame, and Ohio State. Notre Dame was considered the frontrunner for a short period due to their aggressive NIL pitch and strong relationship with Toppin’s AAU coaches. Ohio State, meanwhile, offered immediate playing time and a leadership role in their offense. But Duke’s legacy, NBA pipeline, and the opportunity to join a title-contending squad ultimately sealed the deal.

Duke head coach Jon Scheyer continues to prove that the Blue Devils remain a dominant force in recruiting even in the post-Coach K era. With Toppin now in the fold, Duke’s 2025 recruiting class is projected to jump into the top 3 nationally, alongside Kentucky and Kansas.

The three-year commitment is a rare move in modern college basketball, signaling Toppin’s desire to develop and win titles before making the leap to the NBA. It also reflects Duke’s long-term investment in his growth, both on and off the court.

“This is just the beginning,” Toppin said. “I’m locked in.”

With this flip, Duke not only gains one of the best guards in the country, but also sends a powerful message to the college basketball world — they’re still the gold standard for elite talent. As for Texas Tech, the loss stings, but the Red Raiders will now have to pivot quickly in a rapidly evolving recruiting landscape.

Stay tuned — the JT Toppin era in Durham is about to begin.