Nikola Topić Makes His Thunder Debut as OKC Battles the Bucks
There was a buzz in the air Thursday night at Paycom Center, and it wasn’t just because the Milwaukee Bucks were in town. All eyes were on Nikola Topić, the 18-year-old Serbian guard, who made his NBA debut in front of a home crowd eager to see what the Thunder’s newest addition could bring to an already exciting young core.
Topić didn’t waste time getting involved. From the opening quarter, he showed flashes of the court vision and poise that made him one of the most intriguing international prospects in recent memory. Whether it was pushing the pace in transition or making the right read in the halfcourt, Topić looked comfortable in his first taste of NBA action - and that’s saying something, considering he was matched up against a Milwaukee team known for its length and defensive pressure.
The Thunder, true to form, leaned into their depth and versatility. Chet Holmgren was active early, asserting himself offensively by attacking the rim and using his length to challenge shots on the other end. In one standout moment, Holmgren elevated over Milwaukee forward Ousmane Dieng for a clean jumper in the second quarter - a reminder of just how unique his skill set is for a 7-footer.
Jaylin Williams also got in on the action, showing his usual hustle and toughness around the rim. He found his spots in the paint and wasn’t afraid to go up strong, even against Milwaukee’s interior size.
Speaking of Milwaukee, Ousmane Dieng - now wearing Bucks colors - had a bit of a homecoming of sorts. He looked confident, especially from deep, knocking down a three-pointer over Alex Caruso in the second quarter. Dieng’s development continues to be one to watch, and his growing comfort as a floor-spacer gives Milwaukee another wrinkle in their rotation.
One of the more physical moments came in the first quarter when Isaiah Joe stepped on the foot of Bucks guard Andre Jackson Jr. It was an awkward play, but both players appeared to shake it off and continue. Joe, as always, remained a perimeter threat, launching a three-pointer not long after - a testament to his shooter's mentality.
AJ Green and Andre Jackson Jr. provided Milwaukee with some steady ball movement, with Green threading a pass past Nikola Topić in the first quarter. It was a small moment, but one that showed Milwaukee’s bench wasn’t going to be outdone in the hustle department.
Back on the Thunder side, Topić continued to find his rhythm as the game wore on. He pushed the tempo, moved without the ball, and looked to set up teammates - all signs that he’s ready to contribute, even if the box score doesn’t explode just yet. For a first outing, it was an encouraging glimpse into what could become a key piece of Oklahoma City’s future.
Chet Holmgren had another highlight in the first quarter, taking Milwaukee center Jericho Sims off the dribble and finishing at the rim. It was the kind of aggressive move Thunder fans have been hoping to see more consistently from the lanky big man, and it reinforced just how high his ceiling really is.
The Thunder’s youth movement was on full display, and with Topić now officially in the mix, it’s clear this team is continuing to build something special. There will be growing pains - that’s part of the process - but there’s also an undeniable energy around this squad. They play fast, they play together, and they’re not afraid of the moment.
Thursday night wasn’t just another regular-season game. It was the start of a new chapter for Oklahoma City. And if Nikola Topić’s debut is any indication, the Thunder’s future just got a little brighter.