Nikola Topic Tragic News: Oklahoma City Thunder Rookie Diagnosed with Testicular Cancer

Oklahoma City Thunder rookie Nikola Topic has been diagnosed with testicular cancer, the team confirmed through General Manager Sam Presti on Thursday, October 30, 2025. The 19-year-old Serbian guard is currently undergoing chemotherapy and is said to have an “extremely positive” prognosis according to his medical team.

The diagnosis was confirmed following a biopsy conducted earlier this fall at the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Topic had undergone a procedure at the start of training camp, which led doctors to run further tests. Presti shared that the results confirmed the cancer diagnosis, marking a heartbreaking development for the promising young player who had already missed his first NBA season due to injury.

Thunder GM Sam Presti Confirms Nikola Topic’s Diagnosis

Speaking at a media session ahead of the team’s game, Presti confirmed the news and praised Topic’s strength and resilience. “The biopsy confirmed that is the case,” Presti said. “He has a tremendous group of oncologists both at OU and MD Anderson, and they are extremely positive about his outlook.”

Presti emphasized that testicular cancer is among the most treatable forms of cancer in men and noted that the Thunder’s full focus is on Topic’s health rather than basketball. “He didn’t want to make this public until he had started his treatment,” he added. “He’s been in here training and working through this entire process. As we all know, it’s a challenging treatment to go through, but he’s showing incredible resolve.”

According to Presti, Topic is expected to undergo multiple rounds of chemotherapy under the supervision of both Houston- and Oklahoma-based specialists. No timetable has been given for his return to basketball activities, with the franchise making clear that his recovery takes absolute priority.

A Promising Career Interrupted

Nikola Topic was selected 12th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2024 NBA Draft, making him one of the top European prospects of his class. However, his rookie season was derailed by a knee injury suffered before the draft, preventing him from playing during the 2024–25 campaign.

He made brief appearances during the Summer League and one preseason game earlier this month, sparking optimism among fans about his comeback. That momentum came to a sudden halt following the recent medical procedure that revealed his condition.

Despite the devastating diagnosis, Topic’s attitude and maturity have drawn admiration from both teammates and management. “He’s a remarkable young man,” Presti said. “Extraordinarily mature, composed, resilient — he has all the tools to conquer this situation.”

Outpouring of Support Across the NBA

Players and fans across the league have expressed their support for Topic on social media. Former Thunder players and fellow Europeans have sent messages of encouragement, highlighting the solidarity within the basketball community. The NBA Players Association also issued a statement wishing him strength and recovery.

Medical experts say the prognosis for testicular cancer, particularly when caught early, is highly favorable. With modern treatments, the survival rate exceeds 95%, according to data from the American Cancer Society. This gives optimism to both Topic’s family and the Thunder organization as he embarks on his recovery journey.

Nikola Topic’s courage at just 19 years old has already made an impact beyond the court. While basketball will wait, his determination to overcome adversity stands as an inspiration to fans and athletes alike.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What type of cancer was Nikola Topic diagnosed with?

Nikola Topic has been diagnosed with testicular cancer, as confirmed by Oklahoma City Thunder GM Sam Presti.

Q2: Where is Nikola Topic receiving treatment?

Topic is being treated by oncologists at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston and the University of Oklahoma.

Q3: What is the prognosis for testicular cancer?

According to experts, testicular cancer is among the most curable cancers in men, especially when detected early.

Q4: Will Nikola Topic return to basketball soon?

There is currently no timetable for his return. The Thunder are prioritizing his health and full recovery before any comeback plans.

Q5: How old is Nikola Topic?

He is 19 years old, drafted 12th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2024 NBA Draft.