Jacob Toppin Joins Hapoel Tel Aviv as Athletic Forward with NBA Experience

Jacob Toppin, younger brother of former dunk champion Obi Toppin, signed with Hapoel Tel Aviv on July 29, 2026. Despite limited NBA success, Toppin has built a reputation as a legitimate player and exceptional athlete, having played college basketball at Kentucky under coach John Calipari and appearing in 31 NBA games with teams including the New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks. At Kentucky, he improved steadily, becoming a starter in his third season and averaging 12.2 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. Calipari praised his athleticism and growing confidence.

Toppin went undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft due to concerns about his size and shooting ability but earned a two-way contract with the Knicks, where coach Tom Thibodeau valued his defensive versatility and energy. After a stint with the Hawks, where he scored 17 points in a late-season game, Toppin played sporadically in the NBA G League before a shoulder injury ended his 2024-25 season early.

At 26, Toppin’s signing is seen as a strategic move for Hapoel Tel Aviv, especially given Israeli league restrictions on foreign players. His athleticism and defensive flexibility could address gaps exposed in the previous season’s finals against Maccabi Tel Aviv. While primarily expected to play power forward, Toppin can guard multiple positions and contribute energy and rebounding off the bench. His improved shooting percentages in the G League suggest potential growth, though questions remain about his consistency and defensive instincts.

Toppin’s arrival adds a promising Israeli player to Hapoel’s deep roster, with expectations that he will adapt to European basketball and earn significant playing time. Coaches and scouts highlight his work ethic and physical tools as assets that could help him reach a high ceiling in the Israeli Basketball Premier League.