Things are often bigger than sports, even at the professional level, where there are millions and millions of dollars at play at all times. One thing that will always reign supreme is personal health and well-being, which one former first-round draft pick is being forced to take very seriously, according to his general manager.
“Thunder GM Sam Presti announced that Nikola Topic is dealing with testicular cancer. His doctors are ‘extremely positive’ about his long-term outlook. He has begun chemotherapy, and there is no timetable for his return,” reported Yahoo Sports.
“Topic was the 12th pick in the 2024 NBA draft but has yet to make his debut after missing his entire rookie season with a torn ACL.”
Thunder GM Sam Presti announced that Nikola Topic is dealing with testicular cancer.
His doctors are “extremely positive” about his long-term outlook. He has begun chemotherapy, and there is no timetable for his return.
Topic was the 12th pick in the 2024 NBA draft but has yet… pic.twitter.com/prVatCCf5C
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) October 30, 2025
Fans reacted to the devastating news on social media.
“Wishing Nikola a full and speedy recovery. Basketball can wait — health comes first. Stay strong, champ,” one fan wrote on Twitter.
“Respect to him for even showing up and fighting through this. Hope he beats it and comes back better,” someone else added.
“Get well soon, you’re part of this team and I know all the guys are there for you. This is awful and I wouldn’t wish this on any player. He’s so young too,” another fan added.
Our thoughts will be with Topic during this difficult time.
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.