DAYTON  – University of Dayton rising redshirt sophomore forward Obi Toppin announced Tuesday that he will withdraw his name from the 2019 NBA Draft and return to the University of Dayton.

Toppin made the announcement on his Instagram account.  He thanked the NBA teams who invited him to individual workouts and gave him feedback, and noted that his family was part of the decision-making process.  He said that he felt "We have unfinished business at the University of Dayton," and concluded by stating "Flyer Nation, I'M BACK!!!"
 
Toppin led UD in scoring (14.4), FG% (.666, 201-302), 3-pt., FG% (.524, 11-21) and blocked shots (28) in 2018-19.  He was the first UD player named the A-10 Rookie of the Year and was the first freshman named First Team All-Atlantic 10 since 1998-99.  He was fourth in the nation in FG%, and his 83 dunks were second in Division I.  He set Dayton freshman records for total points (475), scoring average, FG% and dunks.  His field goal percentage was also the third-best overall single season mark at Dayton.

The Flyers improved by seven wins in Anthony Grant's second season as the Dayton head coach, finishing 21-12 and reaching the NIT.  UD was third in the Atlantic 10 Conference with a 13-5 record.  Dayton was second in the nation as a team in field goal percentage (.504, 902-1789).  That was also the best single-season FG% in school history.

The Flyers return three starters and will add five veteran redshirts in 2019-20.   Included in the starters are All-A-10 performers Toppin and junior guard Jalen Crutcher (third team).  Also returning are 2018-19 co-captains Trey Landers and Ryan Mikesell.