LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) – University of Kentucky forward Jacob Toppin is hanging up the blue and white after three seasons.

On Friday, Toppin took to social media to confirm he is taking his talents to the 2023 NBA Draft.

“To Big Blue Nation, ever since I was a kid, it’s always been a dream of mine to play at the highest level of basketball. I came to Kentucky to chase that dream and in my time here, I’ve grown tremendously not only as a player but as a man.

“This place has taught me things that I will take with me for the rest of my life. For that, I want to thank my coaches and my teammates and most importantly the fans. Your support and passion are things I’ll never forget and I will carry with me. It has been a memorable time for me and Kentucky will forever hold a special place in my heart.

“I’ve loved my time here, but I’m ready to finally fulfill my lifelong dream of playing in the NBA. With that being said I will be entering my name into the 2023 NBA Draft. Go Big Blue!” Toppin posted.

  • Kentucky’s Jacob Toppin (0) shoots while defended by Auburn’s Jaylin Williams (2) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in Lexington, Ky., Saturday, Feb. 25, 2023. (AP Photo/James Crisp)
  • INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – MARCH 17: Jacob Toppin #0 of the Kentucky Wildcats dunks the ball against the Saint Peter’s Peacocks during the first half in the first round game of the 2022 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on March 17, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
  • Jacob Toppin comes alive, finishes with 24 points in Cats win over Louisville.
  • Kentucky forward Jacob Toppin (0) dunks the ball on a fast break against Arkansas during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game Saturday, March 4, 2023, in Fayetteville, Ark. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)

Toppin broke out and became a key contributor during his final season with Kentucky. He averaged 12.4 points per game along with 6.8 rebounds and played a career-high 31.4 minutes each game.

Kentucky head coach John Calipari showed his support and praise for Toppin as well.

“I’m excited for Jacob to take this next step of chasing his dream of becoming a professional player. Jacob has steadily improved every season and is ready for this next step. He has all of the tools to be successful in that league and is mentally prepared beyond measure to handle anything that comes his way.

Proud of you, kid!!”, Calipari wrote on social media.