Obadiah Richard "Obi" Toppin Jr. is an American professional basketball player currently showcasing his talents with the Indiana Pacers in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on March 4, 1998, in Brooklyn, New York, Toppin has made a name for himself as a power forward, known for his explosive athleticism and scoring ability.
Toppin's journey to the NBA was not without its challenges. After graduating from Ossining High School, he faced a lack of NCAA Division I offers, prompting him to play a postgraduate season at Mt. Zion Preparatory School in Maryland. His hard work paid off when he joined the Dayton Flyers, where he quickly made an impact. As a freshman, he was honored as the Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year, leading his team in scoring.
His sophomore season marked a turning point in his career, as he earned both the Atlantic 10 Player of the Year and National College Player of the Year accolades. Following this remarkable season, Toppin declared for the 2020 NBA draft and was selected as the eighth overall pick by the New York Knicks.
In addition to his impressive college career, Toppin gained recognition in the NBA for his spectacular dunks, winning the 2022 NBA Slam Dunk Contest after finishing as a runner-up the previous year. In 2023, he was traded to the Indiana Pacers, where he continues to develop his skills and contribute to his team's success.