Indianapolis, IN – July 5, 2025
In a move that has blindsided the basketball world, Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin has made yet another stunning announcement — one that left even veteran head coach Rick Carlisle momentarily speechless.
During what was expected to be a routine offseason media session on Friday afternoon, Toppin stepped up to the podium with a calm demeanor — but what he said next set off a wave of headlines across the NBA.
“I’ve always been about more than just basketball,” Toppin began. “And starting this fall, I’ll be enrolling full-time at Columbia University to pursue a degree in architecture — while still playing for the Pacers.”
Yes, you heard that correctly. Obi Toppin is going Ivy League — and he’s not leaving the NBA to do it.
The 26-year-old high-flyer, known for his explosive dunks and contagious energy, is making history as one of the first active NBA players to simultaneously pursue a full academic course load at one of the nation’s most prestigious universities.
“I’ve always had a passion for building — not just on the court with a team, but literally, building structures, designing spaces,” Toppin said. “This has been a dream of mine since I was a kid, and I’m not waiting until I retire to chase it.”
Toppin revealed that his coursework will be hybrid, with in-person attendance scheduled around the Pacers’ travel calendar, and much of it completed remotely during the season. Columbia University has confirmed his enrollment, noting the program is custom-tailored to accommodate Toppin’s rare dual-career path.
Coach Rick Carlisle, a long-time advocate for player development on and off the court, admitted he had no idea this was coming.
“When he told me, I just sat there and stared at him,” Carlisle said, chuckling. “I mean… architecture? At Columbia? While trying to help lead a playoff team? It’s wild — but it’s Obi. He doesn’t just jump high, he aims high.”
While some critics may question the strain of juggling elite academics and professional basketball, those who know Toppin say it fits perfectly with his character.
“Obi’s always been about more than the highlight reel,” said teammate Tyrese Haliburton. “He wants to make a mark that lasts beyond basketball. This is legacy-level stuff.”
Toppin insisted that his commitment to the Pacers remains unchanged.
“I’m still locked in — the only difference is, I might be drawing floor plans on the plane instead of watching Netflix,” he joked.
The announcement comes just months after Toppin posted a career-best season with Indiana, establishing himself as a key contributor in their fast-paced offense and solidifying his role in the team’s core.
Online, the news sparked a flood of support under the trending hashtag #ArchitectObi, with fans praising Toppin’s ambition and setting him up as a role model for the next generation of athletes.
As the Pacers prepare for what promises to be a competitive 2025–26 season, they’ll do so with a player who’s not just building chemistry — but perhaps designing future arenas, too.
