In a moment that transcended sports, Nikola Topić stepped onto the NBA court for the first time on Thursday, 12 February 2026, earning a thunderous standing ovation from the Paycom Center crowd.
The 20-year-old Serbian guard, selected 12th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2024 Draft, had overcome a torn ACL and testicular cancer to realise his dream. Checking in against the Milwaukee Bucks, Topić notched an assist on his very first possession, symbolising resilience amid the defending champions' push for a repeat.
Topić's journey to the NBA was anything but straightforward. Hailed as a 6-foot-6 playmaker with exceptional vision and handles, he shone in Serbia's Mega MIS and on loan at Crvena Zvezda, averaging 18.6 points and 6.9 assists in the ABA League.
Yet, apartial ACL tearin May 2024 sidelined him for his entire rookie season, forcing the Thunder to stash their prized prospect. As he ramped up for 2025-26, participating in Summer League and one preseason game, fate dealt another blow.
In late October 2025, shortly after preseason, Topić underwent surgery that confirmed testicular cancer. The diagnosis stunned the basketball world; at just 20, he faced chemotherapy, completing treatment by early January 2026.
Topić credited his family's support and the Thunder's medical team post-diagnosis, vowing to come back even stronger when hebegan chemotherapylast October 2025. Testicular cancer, often curable if caught early, required vigilance, but his youth and fitness aided his swift return.
He missed the season's first 55 games, using the time to rebuild strength mentally and physically.
Cleared in mid-January, Topić joined the Thunder's developmental team, OKC Blue, for conditioning. His G-League debut on 10 February was electric: 22 points, six assists, and four rebounds in 19 minutes, showcasing his burst and court IQ.
Coach Daniel Dixon praised his 'tremendous resilience,' noting how Topić handled adversity with poise. These outings—two in total—served as a bridge, ensuring he was NBA-ready without risking further injury. Fans and analysts buzzed: could this 'jumbo playmaker' be the missing piece for OKC's title defence?
Loud City shows love to Nikola Topić as he checks in for his NBA debut 👏💙pic.twitter.com/8R8vM2n1SE
Source: International Business Times UK
