Thunder’s Nikola Topic Begins Chemotherapy for Testicular Cancer

Thunderguard Topic Nikola has been diagnosed with testicular cancer, CEO Sam Presti announced Thursday, via The Oklahoman’s Justin Martinez.

Presti said Topic has started chemotherapy, adding there is no timetable for his return.

The Thunder general manager stressed that doctors are “extremely positive” about Topic’s prognosis, calling testicular cancer the “most cured” among men.

“Our only expectation of him is to focus on that.” Presti told reporters. “That’s his biggest priority. He’ll come back and play basketball as soon as he’s able, but we have no expectations for that. He has all of our support, encouragement and love.”

Topic, 20, was the 12th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft but missed last season with a torn ACL as Oklahoma City won the championship.

He played 31 minutes in the Thunder’s preseason opener earlier this month before being ruled out four to six weeks following a testicular procedure, which doctors later used to confirm the cancer diagnosis.

Big veteran man Nene faced a similar battle during the 2007-08 season, missing 76 days after undergoing chemotherapy but returning to play another decade in the NBA.

The Thunder clearly still believe in Topic’s long-term future. The team picked up his 2026-27 option before the season started, locking in his $5.43 million salary for next year.