Nikola Topic: Thunder Draft Pick Returns After Cancer Battle | NBA G-League Comeback
- Oklahoma City Thunder guard Nikola Topić made his long-awaited NBA debut Thursday, February 13, 2026, scoring his first points after a battle with testicular cancer.
- Topić’s journey to the NBA has been marked by significant setbacks.
- The diagnosis came after Topić had already participated in the Thunder’s Summer League games and preseason play, suggesting he was poised to contribute immediately before the unexpected health...
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Nikola Topić made his long-awaited NBA debut , scoring his first points after a battle with testicular cancer. The Serbian guard, selected as the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, received a standing ovation from the crowd as he entered the game against the Milwaukee Bucks late in the first quarter.
Topić’s journey to the NBA has been marked by significant setbacks. He initially missed his entire rookie season due to a knee injury sustained before the draft. Just as he began to regain his form, a cancer diagnosis during the preseason presented a new challenge. According to reports, he underwent a procedure in October and subsequently received chemotherapy treatment.
The diagnosis came after Topić had already participated in the Thunder’s Summer League games and preseason play, suggesting he was poised to contribute immediately before the unexpected health hurdle. The team’s general manager, Sam Presti, publicly disclosed the cancer diagnosis in October, initiating a period of treatment and recovery.
Despite the arduous treatment, Topić demonstrated remarkable resilience, working to regain his physical condition and return to competitive basketball. He recently made his debut with the Oklahoma City Blue, the Thunder’s G League affiliate, on , recording seven points and seven assists in 16 minutes of play during a 137-135 overtime victory against the Sioux Falls Skyforce.
In his NBA debut, Topić finished with two points, one rebound and one assist in a 110-93 loss to the Bucks. He scored his first NBA basket on a jumper near the free-throw line early in the second quarter. While his statistical contribution was modest, the significance of his appearance extended far beyond the box score.
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault emphasized the emotional and mental fortitude Topić displayed throughout his ordeal. “We’re all just collectively thrilled that he’s back playing basketball,” Daigneault told reporters. “I know he’s missed it a great deal, and this is just so good for him mentally to get his feet back underneath him.” Daigneault further described Topić’s return as an “unbelievable accomplishment,” praising his “resilience” and “mental toughness.”
Testicular cancer is a relatively rare malignancy, but it is the most common cancer affecting men aged 15-35. The prognosis for early-stage testicular cancer is generally very good, with high cure rates achieved through surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Early detection is crucial, and men are encouraged to perform regular self-examinations and seek medical attention if they notice any lumps, swelling, or discomfort in the testicles.
The treatment for testicular cancer often involves a combination of approaches tailored to the stage and type of cancer. Surgery is typically the first line of defense, followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy, as Topić underwent, utilizes drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Side effects of chemotherapy can vary depending on the specific drugs used, but may include nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and increased susceptibility to infection.
Topić’s case highlights the importance of ongoing medical care and support for athletes facing serious health challenges. His ability to overcome both a significant knee injury and a cancer diagnosis speaks to his dedication, perseverance, and the quality of care he received. His return to the court serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to achieve one’s goals.
The Thunder selected Topić with the expectation that he would become a key contributor to the team’s future success. His skills and potential were evident even before his injuries and illness. Now, after navigating a challenging period, he has the opportunity to fulfill that promise and contribute to the Thunder’s aspirations on and off the court.
His G League performance prior to his NBA debut showed promising signs of his basketball acumen, with seven points and seven assists in 16 minutes. This suggests a well-rounded skillset that could prove valuable as he integrates further into the Thunder’s rotation.
The road ahead for Topić will undoubtedly involve continued rehabilitation and adaptation as he regains his peak physical condition. However, his successful return to the game represents a significant milestone, not only for him personally but also for the Oklahoma City Thunder organization and the broader basketball community.