Oklahoma City's Thunder Guard Nikola Topić Is Undergoing Chemotherapy for Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer continues to touch lives across all walks of life, including professional athletes. Oklahoma City Thunder guard Nikola Topić has begun chemotherapy after being diagnosed with testicular cancer, according to Thunder general manager Sam Presti.

Topić, the No. 12 pick in the 2024 NBA draft, previously sat out last season recovering from a torn ACL. In early October, he underwent a procedure at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston to obtain a biopsy. Topić requested that his diagnosis remain private until he had started treatment.

Presti emphasized that doctors are "extremely positive" about Topić’s long-term outlook and noted that the young guard has been able to continue working out while undergoing chemotherapy. “Our only expectations for him are to focus on this,” Presti said. “He’ll be back playing basketball when he’s able, but we’re not putting any time length or expectations on that. He has our total support, encouragement, and love.”

Topić’s story is a reminder that testicular cancer can affect men of all ages and backgrounds, and that early detection and proper treatment are critical for a positive outcome.

Thunder's Nikola Topić being treated for testicular cancer - ESPN