Ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, Oklahoma City Thunder’s Nikola Topic diagnosed with testicular canceras he underwent a procedure after making his pre-season debut. Although some NBA players have received the same diagnosis in the past, Topic, 20, is undoubtedly the youngest. A scary setback for the 2024 first-round pick, who spent his entire rookie season recovering from a torn ACL injury.
Former Denver Nuggets center Nene25 years old at the time, was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2008, reminding fans This is the last time an NBA player received the same diagnosis as Topic, according to X by Jeff Stotts, formerly Twitter.
“Pray for Thunder guard Nikola Topic following his testicular cancer diagnosis. Former NBA big man Nene also battled testicular cancer and underwent chemotherapy during his NBA career, missing 76 days during the 2007-08 season. Nene played 11 additional seasons after his return,” Stotts reported.
Nene underwent surgery and chemotherapy during the 2007–08 season, but made a full recovery.
Thunder Announces Nikola Topic Fights Testicular Cancer
Fans learned Thunder goalie Nikola Topic underwent testicular surgerybut I never knew the extent of it until Thunder general manager Sam Presti announced Topic’s cancer diagnosis on Thursday.
Before the Thunder’s game against the Wizards, Presti briefed reporters on Topic’s latest setback, revealing the kind of news that puts the importance of playing basketball on the back burner. in the midst of a cancer diagnosis.
“The procedure was necessary to do a biopsy, and the results of the biopsy were determined, and he is facing a case of testicular cancer,” Presti said. “He has a wonderful group of oncologists at OU and MD Anderson, and they are extremely positive about his outlook. It’s important to note that testicular cancer is the most cured form of cancer in men.
“But the treatment option for him currently, recommended by oncologists, is chemotherapy. (Subject) didn’t want to make that information public until he started the actual treatment, which he recently did.”
Sam Presti announced today that Nikola Topic is suffering from testicular cancer.
His doctors are “extremely positive” about his long-term prospects. He has started chemotherapy and there is no timetable for his return.
I wish all the best for the subject. pic.twitter.com/jqtkdO5qGa
– Justin Martinez (@Justintohoops) October 30, 2025
Doctors expect Topic to make a healthy recovery.
“Our only expectations of him are to focus on that – that’s his biggest priority. He’ll come back and play basketball when he can, but obviously we don’t have any expectations on that,” Presti said. “He has all our support, encouragement and love. The guys on the team have been incredible.”
The Thunder will host the Wizards on Thursday.
