In an inspiring turn of events, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Nikola Topic is officially back on the court, resuming his team's training regimen. This marks a significant milestone in his challenging journey, which saw him diagnosed with testicular cancer just as he was recovering from a serious knee injury.
From ACL Injury to a Cancer Diagnosis
The young Serbian player's path to the NBA has been fraught with obstacles. Drafted 12th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, Topic missed his entire rookie season due to a torn left ACL sustained during the ABA League Finals in May 2024. After surgery and rehabilitation, he was working his way back, even making a preseason appearance on October 5, where he posted 10 points, seven assists, and four rebounds.
However, a devastating new challenge emerged. On October 30, Thunder General Manager Sam Presti announced that a biopsy at the MD Anderson Cancer Centre in Houston, Texas, had revealed Topic was battling testicular cancer. His agent, Misko Raznatovic, confirmed the 20-year-old immediately began chemotherapy.
A Successful Fight and Road to Recovery
In a recent update that has brought relief and optimism, agent Misko Raznatovic shared positive news. He stated that Nikola Topic has successfully completed his chemotherapy treatment. Remarkably, Topic remained active and continued to train at the team's facilities throughout his therapy, a testament to his determination.
"The chemotherapy has been successfully completed, and he is now returning to the training process," Raznatovic said in an interview with TV Arena Sport. He expressed hope for Topic's imminent return to competitive play, saying, "I sincerely hope that this year he will get minutes not only in the G League but also on NBA courts."
Building a Stronger Character Through Adversity
Raznatovic emphasized the mental fortitude his client has shown. He acknowledged the difficulty of facing such an illness, especially for a 20-year-old who had already lost a season to injury. "Nikola has endured all of this and is on the path to recovery," the agent stated.
Looking ahead, Raznatovic believes these trials will only make Topic stronger. "If he stays healthy, and I believe he will, everything that has happened in the past two years will only strengthen his character," he added. "If he has managed to overcome these two obstacles, nothing will be difficult or unattainable for him in the future."
Before his diagnosis, Topic had shown promise in the NBA Summer League, averaging 10.8 points, 5.8 assists, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.8 steals over six games for the Thunder. The basketball world now eagerly awaits the return of a player who has fought battles far beyond the hardwood.
