Not Michael Jordan or Scottie Pippen - this is JT Toppin’s unexpected favorite player from the ‘90s Chicago Bulls

Texas Tech’s Big 12 Player of the Year JT Toppin is a big part of the reason they’ve made it all the way to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament. The 19-year-old standout chose to transfer to Tech from New Mexico, despite interest from other schools like the University of Texas, due to their belief in him and their commitment to developing his skills.

Toppin’s impact on the court has helped Tech make it this far into the Big Dance as they look to make an even deeper run. Who inspires a player like this? The answer might surprise you.

JT Toppin’s favorite NBA player

The 6′9″ forward was born in 2005 in Dallas, Texas, but he grew up a big fan of a player from the title-winning 1990s Chicago Bulls. And no, it wasn’t Michael Jordan.

Toppin’s favorite NBA player is Dennis Rodman, who played his last season in the NBA five years before Toppin was born. But Toppin, like Rodman, values rebounds over scoring. They also both happen to have played high school ball in Dallas.

“JT would rather have 20 rebounds than 20 points any day of the week,” said Toppin’s agent and former NBA player Ramon Sessions. “You’ll see JT on a regular basis with a Dennis Rodman shirt. He wears his hoodies. Their games are very relatable from an energy standpoint. He watches film on Dennis Rodman. Like, it’s crazy.” 

It’s Toppin’s appreciation - and talent - for rebounding, coupled with his offensive power, that’s helped Tech to get this far into March Madness. He is averaging a double-double through the first two rounds of the tournament. In their latest victory over Drake, Toppin put up 25 points and 12 rebounds. And it’s thanks to Tech’s belief in developing Toppin into more than just a rebounder that he’s been able to get them this far.

Tech is currently facing No. 10 Arkansas in the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA Tournament with the winner heading to the Elite Eight to play No. 1 Florida. Arkansas leads 38-31 at the end of the first half.

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