By Sports Insider News | October 31, 2025
The basketball world was left in disbelief on Thursday after the Oklahoma City Thunder announced that rookie guard Nikola Topić has been diagnosed with testicular cancer.
The 19-year old Serbian star, a first-round pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, was expected to play a major role for the defending champions this season after missing last year with a torn ACL.
It’s a crushing turn for a player many had called one of Europe’s best young guards in a decade a story that was supposed to be about comeback and redemption, not another battle for survival.
Thunder general manager Sam Presti confirmed the diagnosis in a press conference, revealing that Topić underwent a testicular procedure earlier this month and has now started chemotherapy.
“He’s Stronger Than You Think”: Presti’s Emotional Statement
Fighting back emotion, Presti told reporters that doctors are “extremely positive” about Topić’s long-term outlook and that the guard has already shown remarkable courage during the early stages of treatment.
“He has every tool you could ask for to take on and conquer this situation,” Presti said. “He’s mentally sharp, physically tough, and spiritually grounded. Everyone here believes in him.”
According to Presti, Topić requested that his diagnosis be kept private until after treatment began a reflection of the young player’s humility and focus. “He didn’t want to distract the team or the fans,” Presti said. “That’s the kind of person he is.”
From Rising Star to Relentless Fighter
Just a few weeks ago, Topić looked ready to finally step into the spotlight. After sitting out the entire 2024–25 season due to an ACL injury, he had impressed during Summer League play and the preseason, where he scored 10 points and 7 assists in a win over the Charlotte Hornets.
Fans were buzzing about his smooth passing, poise under pressure, and leadership rare qualities for a 19-year old. The Thunder, fresh off an NBA championship, saw Topić as their next great developmental story.
But behind the scenes, something else was unfolding. Team doctors discovered the issue during a post-game checkup. Within days, Topić underwent surgery, and follow-up tests confirmed what no one wanted to hear: testicular cancer.
It’s a diagnosis that has shaken the organization to its core but also united it like never before.
The Locker Room Reaction: “We’re Playing for Him”
According to team insiders, Presti gathered players and coaches in the locker room before practice to break the news. The mood turned heavy as the reality sank in.
Star guard Shai Gilgeous Alexander reportedly embraced Topić before practice, telling him, “You’re not fighting alone.” Later that day, he posted on Instagram:
“We’re with you, Niko. You’ve got the heart of a warrior. You’ll beat this.”
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault also spoke out, saying:
“He’s family. We talk about toughness all the time in basketball but this is real toughness. He’s already a hero to all of us.”
The organization has surrounded Topić with full medical and emotional support, including private transport to treatment sessions and 24/7 access to team doctors.
NBA Family Unites in Support
As soon as the news hit social media, the entire NBA community rallied behind Topić.
Luka Dončić, a fellow Balkan star, wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“Stay strong, brother. We’re all with you.”
Nikola Jokić sent a private message to the Thunder guard, offering to connect him with doctors back in Serbia who have treated other athletes successfully.
The NBA Players Association released a statement praising Topić’s courage, saying,
“Nikola’s bravery and positivity serve as an inspiration to all players. We stand united with him in this fight.”
Even rival franchises, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks, and Miami Heat, posted messages of solidarity. Thunder fans have already begun organizing a “Pray for Niko” tribute night, expected to take place during next week’s home game.
Medical Perspective: A Treatable Battle With Hope
According to leading medical experts, testicular cancer has one of the highest survival rates among all cancers when detected early.
Doctors treating Topić reportedly told the team that his prognosis is “very positive” and that a full recovery and even a return to basketball is highly likely.
Still, the road won’t be easy. Chemotherapy can cause fatigue, nausea, and weight loss, and recovery takes time. But sources inside the Thunder organization say Topić has maintained his trademark discipline continuing light workouts whenever possible.
From Belgrade to the NBA: The Journey That Defines Him
Topić’s story has always been about resilience. Born in Belgrade, Serbia, he was raised in a family that valued discipline and humility. By 16, he was already playing for KK Crvena Zvezda (Red Star Belgrade) one of Europe’s top clubs and earned a reputation for his high basketball IQ and leadership.
His rise caught NBA scouts’ attention early, and in 2024, the Oklahoma City Thunder took him with a first round pick, calling him “a future franchise cornerstone.”
Now, as he faces the toughest challenge of his life, those same words carry new meaning.
“This Is Bigger Than Basketball” A Message of Strength
In a powerful closing statement, Presti reminded reporters of what truly matters.
“We love this game, but this is a moment that reminds us it’s only a game. What matters is people their health, their fight, their courage.”
Topić reportedly told teammates, “Don’t worry about me. Win games. I’ll be back when this is over.”
It’s the kind of quiet confidence that has defined him since day one a reminder that even when life throws its hardest shots, true champions never stop fighting.
❤ A League United
As the entire NBA family stands behind Nikola Topić, one thing is clear this isn’t just about basketball anymore.
It’s about strength, unity, and the will to overcome. For the Thunder, for the fans, and for everyone watching, Nikola’s fight has already inspired millions.
“He’s not just a player,” one Thunder fan wrote online. “He’s a fighter and he’s already winning.”