Nikola Topić took another big step in his long road back to the court, making his G League debut with the Oklahoma City Blue after a season marked by setbacks that would challenge even the most seasoned pros-let alone a 20-year-old rookie.
Topić, the Thunder’s No. 12 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, suited up for the Blue in their matchup against the Sioux Falls Skyforce at the Paycom Center. In just 16 minutes of action, he made his presence felt, dropping seven points on an efficient 3-of-5 shooting clip and dishing out seven assists. Oklahoma City pulled out a 137-135 win, but the real story was Topić-back on the floor, moving with purpose, and showing flashes of the high-IQ playmaking that made him a lottery pick.
This debut wasn’t just about the box score. It was a milestone in a comeback that’s been anything but ordinary.
Topić’s rookie journey has been defined by resilience. After missing the start of the season while recovering from a torn ACL-a tough blow for any young player-he was hit with an even more daunting challenge.
In October, following a procedure, he was diagnosed with cancer and underwent treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. The diagnosis came just as he was gearing up for his NBA debut, and it forced him to shift his focus from basketball to something far more important: his health.
By the end of December, his agent confirmed that Topić had completed chemotherapy. From there, the focus shifted back to basketball. He gradually ramped up his workouts, and Monday night’s G League appearance marked the first time he’s seen game action since the preseason.
For context, Topić had gotten his first taste of NBA-level competition during the Summer League in Salt Lake City and Las Vegas, and he even logged minutes in one preseason game before his diagnosis. But this G League game was different. This was the beginning of a real return-one built on months of physical rehab, mental toughness, and an unwavering commitment to getting back on the court.
What stood out against Sioux Falls wasn’t just that Topić played-it’s how he played. He looked comfortable orchestrating the offense, finding open teammates with the kind of vision and timing that made him a standout international prospect.
The Thunder have long valued high-IQ guards who can read the floor and make the right play, and Topić fits that mold. His seven assists weren’t flashy-they were smart, steady, and exactly what you want to see from a young guard easing back into competitive action.
There’s still a long way to go. This was just one game, and the Thunder will be cautious with his ramp-up.
But make no mistake: this was a significant step. If his progress continues, Topić could find himself back with the Thunder later this season, contributing to one of the most exciting young cores in the league.
For now, it’s about building momentum-minute by minute, game by game. But after everything Topić has been through, just being back on the court is a win in itself. And if this performance is any indication, there’s plenty more to come.