The Oklahoma City Thunder announced that rookie guard Nikola Topić is beginning treatment for testicular cancer.
Thunder general manager Sam Presti shared an update during practice that Topić has already begun chemotherapy and is being treated by top medical specialists at OU Health and MD Anderson in Houston.
“He has a tremendous group of oncologists … and they are extremely positive about his outlook,” Presti said. “It’s important to note that testicular cancer is the most cured form of cancer among males. His only priority right now is to focus on his health.”A Positive Long-Term Outlook
Presti said the procedure was necessary to perform a biopsy and confirm the diagnosis, adding that Topić’s long-term prognosis is very positive. The rookie has continued to train when possible and remains active around the team facility.
“He’s been in here, working out through this entire process,” Presti said. “As we all know, this will be a challenging treatment process, but he has all the tools you’d ask for in someone facing this.”
The Thunder are not setting a timeline for Topić’s basketball return. “Our only expectation for him,” Presti said, “is to get healthy.”
A Remarkably Mature Rookie
Topić, the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, missed all of last season recovering from a torn ACL. He returned for Summer League and made his preseason debut against Charlotte, posting 10 points and seven assists in 31 minutes.
Known for his calm demeanor and playmaking ability, Topić was expected to serve as the Thunder’s primary new rotation piece this season.
“He’s extraordinarily mature, composed, and resilient,” Presti said. “Everyone who’s been around him knows that.”Support From Teammates
The Thunder locker room has rallied around Topić since learning of his diagnosis. While Presti declined to share details from team discussions, he said the group’s connection goes beyond basketball.
“The best thing about our team is they see each other as humans, not just teammates,” he said. “They’ll be there for him not just now, but long after they’re done playing together.”
Veteran guard Alex Caruso said during media day that Topić’s even-keeled personality made him a natural fit.
“He’s emotionless, in a good way,” Caruso said. “He’s starting to make jokes now, which is great. He’s getting more comfortable. He’ll be fine.”Thunder Injury Updates
The Thunder are dealing with several other health issues entering the season:
Kenrich Williams underwent arthroscopic knee surgery last week, with no set return timeline.Rookie center Thomas Sorber will miss the entire season after tearing his right ACL.
Even so, the organization remains optimistic and united behind Topić as he begins his recovery.
“He’s part of our family,” Presti said. “Basketball will wait. Right now, we’re focused on helping Nikola beat this.”