Basketball fans love a good story, and Jacob Toppin delivers one worth watching. As a young player carving his path in the NBA, Jacob brings energy, skill, and a famous last name to the court. The 24-year-old forward currently plays for the Atlanta Hawks on a two-way contract, splitting time between the NBA and the G League. With his latest updates showing both promise and challenges, let’s dive into who Jacob Toppin is, where he stands today, and what the future might hold for this exciting talent.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Jacob carries a basketball legacy tied to his older brother, Obi Toppin, a standout forward for the Indiana Pacers. Yet, Jacob refuses to linger in anyone’s shadow. Instead, he builds his own reputation with every game, dunk, and hustle play. As of April 10, 2025, his journey offers plenty to unpack— from his college days to his recent injury setbacks and his growing presence in the professional ranks.
From Brooklyn to the Big Leagues: Jacob’s Early Years
Jacob Toppin’s story starts in Brooklyn, where he first picked up a basketball. Growing up in a city known for its tough streets and tougher players shaped his gritty style. He shares a close bond with his brother Obi, who won the 2022 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, inspiring Jacob to chase his own dreams. Basketball runs deep in the Toppin family, and Jacob’s early years reflect that passion.
He attended high school across New York and Connecticut, sharpening his skills with every season. After high school, Jacob took his talents to the University of Rhode Island, where he began his college career. There, he flashed potential as a versatile forward, blending athleticism with a growing feel for the game. However, he craved a bigger stage, so he transferred to the University of Kentucky after his freshman year. At Kentucky, Jacob honed his craft under coach John Calipari, a legend known for preparing players for the NBA.
During his time with the Wildcats, Jacob averaged 8.3 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.4 assists over three seasons. Those numbers don’t scream superstar, but they reveal a player finding his footing. He posted 23 double-figure scoring games and eight double-doubles, proving he could impact both ends of the floor. By his senior year, Jacob led Kentucky in scoring four times, signaling his readiness for the next level.
Entering the NBA: A Two-Way Journey Begins
Jacob Toppin entered the 2023 NBA Draft with high hopes, but no team called his name. Undeterred, he signed a two-way contract with the New York Knicks, his hometown team. This deal allowed him to split time between the Knicks and their G League affiliate, the Westchester Knicks. For Jacob, it marked the start of his professional journey, and he attacked it with gusto.
In his rookie season of 2023-24, Jacob saw limited action with the Knicks, appearing in just nine games. He averaged 1.4 points and 0.8 rebounds in 4.2 minutes per outing, numbers that reflect his role as a deep reserve. However, the G League offered a different story. With Westchester, Jacob erupted for 19.8 points, 8.6 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.1 blocks per game across 36.7 minutes. His explosive dunks and relentless energy turned heads, hinting at untapped potential.
The Knicks saw enough promise to extend him a qualifying offer in June 2024, keeping him in the fold. Jacob even got a taste of the spotlight during the 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend. He competed in the Slam Dunk Contest, following in Obi’s footsteps. Assisted by his brother, Jacob soared over Obi for a 47.8-score dunk in the first round, dazzling fans in Indianapolis. Though he didn’t win—Mac McClung took the crown—Jacob proved he belonged among the league’s high-flyers.
A New Chapter with the Atlanta Hawks
Fast forward to March 2025, and Jacob’s career took a sharp turn. The Knicks waived him on March 2, clearing space on their roster. Two days later, the Atlanta Hawks swooped in, signing Jacob to a new two-way contract. This move gave him a fresh start with a team hungry for young talent. The Hawks, led by stars like Trae Young, offered Jacob a chance to grow alongside a playoff contender.
Since joining Atlanta, Jacob continues to split time between the NBA and the G League’s College Park Skyhawks. His G League stats impressed, averaging 21.3 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.8 three-pointers per game over six appearances by late March. He shoots efficiently and rebounds with authority, showcasing skills that could translate to the NBA. However, his time with the Hawks’ main roster remains limited, averaging just 3.1 minutes across 16 games in the 2024-25 season.
The Hawks transferred Jacob to their NBA roster on March 31, signaling trust in his development. Yet, injuries soon tested his resilience. On March 22, he sat out a G League game with a left forearm strain. The next day, left elbow inflammation kept him sidelined during a Hawks win over the Golden State Warriors. These setbacks frustrated fans and analysts eager to see more of his athletic flair.
Injury Woes in April 2025: The Latest Update
As of April 10, 2025, Jacob Toppin battles another hurdle. A left calf strain forces him to miss games, including a matchup against the Orlando Magic on April 8. Reports confirm he hasn’t played since March 28, when he last suited up for the College Park Skyhawks. This injury marks his fifth consecutive game missed, a tough blow for a player fighting for minutes.
The Hawks list Jacob as out, with no clear timeline for his return. For a two-way player like him, staying healthy proves crucial to earning a bigger role. His absence doesn’t shake Atlanta’s rotation much—is 3.1 minutes per game barely register in coach Quin Snyder’s plans. Still, Jacob’s supporters hope he recovers soon, eager to see him back in action before the regular season ends.
Despite the setbacks, Jacob’s G League numbers keep optimism alive. His scoring, rebounding, and versatility suggest he could contribute to the Hawks if given a chance. For now, he focuses on rehabbing his calf, determined to reclaim his spot on the court.
The Toppin Brothers: A Family Affair
No article about Jacob Toppin skips his connection to Obi. The brothers share a tight bond, rooted in their Brooklyn upbringing. Obi, now 27, blazed a trail Jacob follows with pride. When Obi won the 2022 Slam Dunk Contest, Jacob watched in awe, dreaming of his own moment. Two years later, he got it, competing in the same event with Obi cheering him on.
Their paths crossed on the court, too. On December 30, 2023, the Knicks faced the Pacers, pitting Jacob against Obi in an NBA game for the first time. Obi scored nine points and grabbed eight rebounds, while Jacob played a late-minute stint. Their mother, Roni Toppin, beamed from the stands, soaking in the family milestone. Obi later said, “He’s fit in well here,” praising Jacob’s growth with the Knicks.
The brothers push each other constantly. Jacob wore Obi’s 2022 dunk contest sneakers during his 2024 performance, a nod to their shared journey. Off the court, they trade tips and support, keeping the Toppin name alive in basketball circles. Fans love the storyline, and it adds layers to Jacob’s rise.
FAQs About Jacob Toppin
1. What team does Jacob Toppin play for in April 2025, and what’s his contract status?
Jacob Toppin plays for the Atlanta Hawks as of April 10, 2025, on a two-way contract. This deal lets him split time between the Hawks and their G League team, the College Park Skyhawks. He joined Atlanta in March 2025 after the Knicks waived him, giving him a fresh shot with a new squad.
2. How does Jacob Toppin’s playing style compare to his brother Obi Toppin?
The Ageless Jacob and Obi share athletic DNA, but their games differ slightly. Jacob, at 6-foot-8, thrives on explosive dunks and rebounds hard, averaging 8.8 boards in the G League. Obi, a bit taller, leans into scoring off the bench, averaging 11 points for the Pacers. Jacob shoots more threes, while Obi excels in transition.
3. Why hasn’t Jacob Toppin played more NBA minutes this season?
Minnesota Jacob’s limited NBA time—3.1 minutes per game—stems from his two-way status and stiff competition. The Hawks prioritize stars like Trae Young and veterans over young players. Plus, injuries, like his current calf strain, keep him off the court, stalling his chance to crack the rotation.
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