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Texas Tech AD Kirby Hocutt releases scathing statement on JT Toppin ejection

Wade-Peeryby:Wade Peery02/01/25
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Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images

We had an ejection on Saturday night, when Texas Tech’s JT Toppin was ejected from their game against the Houston Cougars. Toppin was throwing a pass, when his leg kicked up into the groin of Joseph “Jojo” Tugler. Officials called Toppin for a Flagrant 2 foul, ejecting him from the game. The Cougars forward buckled over in pain as the foul was called. You can view the moment below.

Following the game, Texas Tech Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt was furious with the ejection. And he released a scathing statement on Toppin being tossed from the game.

“I am appalled and disappointed by the officials egregious decision to eject JT Toppin from tonight’s basketball game against Houston. This decision, made on a play that was clearly accidental and without intent, is unacceptable,” Hocutt’s statement read.

“Immediately after the ejection, I spoke with Commissioner Yormark, who assured me that the situation would be addressed and there would be accountability. On behalf of Red Raider Nation, we are extremely proud of our team and the leadership of Coach McCasland,” Hocutt finished.

Texas Tech head coach Grant McCasland was also ejected in the game, after he was arguing with officials over Toppin getting tossed. Which is why he was mentioned in the release by Kirby Hocutt. Toppin only played four minutes on Saturday night, before he was ejected. He finished with no points and one rebound in just four minutes of work, before he had to leave the game.

Texas Tech prevailed with the win in overtime, 82-81, as they knocked off the No. 6 ranked Houston Cougars. Darrion Williams finished with 13 points, four rebounds, three assists, and three steals for the Red Raiders. Chance McMillian erupted for 23 points and grabbed five rebounds. In all, Texas Tech finished with five scorers in double figures, with McMillian leading the way.

On3’s Chandler Vessels also contributed to this article.