Thunder’s Nikola Topic Faces Testicular Cancer Diagnosis, Begins Chemotherapy Treatment
Oklahoma City Thunder’s Nikola Topić has been diagnosed with testicular cancer and is currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment. General Manager Sam Presti confirmed the news on Thursday, stating that Topić’s diagnosis followed a biopsy performed after a surgical procedure earlier this month.
Nikola Topić’s Diagnosis and Treatment
The biopsy results confirmed cancer, but Topić chose to keep this information private until he began treatment. Presti shared that the medical team is optimistic about Topić’s long-term prognosis.
Details of the Surgery
Topić’s surgery was conducted at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Following the procedure, the Thunder announced on October 6 that Topić would be reevaluated in four to six weeks.
Background Information
- Topić was selected by the Thunder with the No. 12 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
- He did not play his rookie season due to a torn ACL incurred during the Adriatic League playoffs while with Red Star Belgrade in Serbia.
- Topić made his debut for the Thunder in July during the summer league, averaging 10.8 points, 5.8 assists, and 3.2 rebounds over five games.
Recent Performance
In the Thunder’s first preseason game against the Charlotte Hornets on October 5, Topić scored 10 points and recorded seven assists in 32 minutes of play. Although he has been training with the team, no timeline has been established for his return to competitive games.
Upcoming Events
On October 21, Topić joined his teammates at Paycom Center for the regular-season opener against the Houston Rockets. During the pregame ceremony, he received his championship ring from NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, celebrating Oklahoma City’s recent 2024-25 Finals victory.
