Thunder’s Nikola Topic begins chemotherapy for testicular cancer

Thunder guard Nikola Topic has been diagnosed with testicular cancer, general manager Sam Presti announced Thursday, via The Oklahoman’s Justin Martinez.

Presti said Topic has started chemotherapy, adding that there’s no timetable for his return.

The Thunder GM emphasized that doctors are “extremely positive” about Topic’s prognosis, calling testicular cancer “the most cured” among males.

“Our only expectation of him is to focus on this,” Presti told reporters. “This is his most important priority. He’ll be back playing basketball when he’s able to, but we’re not putting any type of expectations on that. He has our total 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 went on to win 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.

Veteran big 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 began, locking in his $5.43 million salary for next year.