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Thunder Star Nikola Topic Battles Testicular Cancer, Remains Optimistic
30 Oct
Summary
- 20-year-old Thunder guard Nikola Topic diagnosed with testicular cancer
- Underwent chemotherapy, no timetable for return to team
- Thunder GM Sam Presti says Topic has "tremendous group of oncologists" and positive outlook
On October 30, 2025, the Oklahoma City Thunder received troubling news about one of their young stars. 20-year-old guard Nikola Topic has been diagnosed with testicular cancer, according to Thunder general manager Sam Presti.
The diagnosis came after an initial testicular procedure Topic underwent before the team's training camp last month. Presti revealed that Topic has now undergone chemotherapy, but there is no timetable for his return to the team.
Despite the difficult circumstances, Presti expressed optimism about Topic's recovery, citing the player's age and the support of his medical team. "He has a tremendous group of oncologists both at OU, at MD Anderson, and they are extremely positive about his outlook in dealing with this situation," Presti said.
The Thunder GM also praised Topic's character, describing him as a "really remarkable, remarkable guy" who is "extraordinarily mature, composed, resilient." Presti emphasized that Topic's health is the team's top priority, and they will not rush his return to the court.
The news comes as the Thunder are coming off their first NBA championship in 2025. Topic did not play last season as he recovered from a torn ACL, but he had shown promise in the Summer League and preseason games prior to his cancer diagnosis.
