OKLAHOMA CITY — Nikola Topic stood at the scorer’s table last Thursday, tugged at the hem of his jersey, and waited for the horn. For most 20-year-olds, checking into an NBA game is a dream realized. For Topic, it was a victory over a two-year nightmare. After a torn ACL and a grueling battle with testicular cancer, the Serbian playmaker didn’t just play; he survived.
The Long Road to Paycom Center
The Oklahoma City Thunder drafted Topic 12th overall in 2024 knowing he would redshirt his first year due to a partial ACL tear. But just as the 6-foot-6 guard prepared for his 2025-26 breakout, life threw a heavier punch: a cancer diagnosis in October. Following surgery and rounds of chemotherapy, Topic’s return to the court seemed a distant hope.
That hope turned into reality last week. Entering late in the first quarter against Milwaukee, Topic was met with a thunderous standing ovation that brought the Paycom Center to its feet. He didn’t waste time. Early in the second, Topic navigated a screen, rose for a jumper near the free-throw line, and watched the ball snap the net.
“It was a monumental moment for him,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said. “He has faced more adversity than most people see in a lifetime.”
Nikola Topic: Debut Performance Stats
- Minutes: 12
- Points: 2 (1-3 FG)
- Rebounds: 1
- Assists: 1
- Turnovers: 3
What They Said
“I’m not blinking. I know what I’m capable of. I just want to be ready to rock and roll and be as healthy as possible for this team.”
— Nikola Topic after his return to action.
“To see him back on the floor… it’s inspiring for the entire locker room. We’ve seen the work he put in when nobody was watching.”
— Isaiah Joe, Thunder Guard
Playoff Push: Why Topic Matters Now
The timing of Topic’s return is vital. The Thunder currently sit atop the Western Conference at 42-14, but the injury bug is biting hard. With Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Ajay Mitchell both ruled out for tonight’s matchup against the Brooklyn Nets, Oklahoma City needs a primary ball-handler to eat minutes.
Topic’s high basketball IQ and veteran-like distribution style provide a unique look for the second unit. While he is still regaining his game conditioning—evidenced by three turnovers in his debut—his presence allows Cason Wallace and Isaiah Joe to stay in their preferred scoring roles. If Topic can stabilize the rotation during this shorthanded stretch, the reigning champs might just coast into the top seed without breaking a sweat.
