Nikola Topić Returns to Pregame Warmups Amid Cancer Treatment, Showing Signs of Progress
For the first time this season, Oklahoma City Thunder rookie guard Nikola Topić was back on the floor during pregame warmups - a welcome sight for teammates, coaches, and fans alike. It's been a tough road for the 2024 first-round pick, who’s been battling testicular cancer following a preseason debut that was supposed to mark the beginning of his NBA journey.
Before the Thunder faced off against the Los Angeles Clippers at Paycom Center, Topić was seen taking shots alongside teammates - a quiet but powerful moment that marked his first public basketball activity since beginning treatment. While he remains sidelined for the 2025-26 season, the visual of him back in warmups was an encouraging sign that he’s making strides in his recovery.
Topić has remained close to the team throughout the season, staying involved even while undergoing chemotherapy. Thunder GM Sam Presti first shared the news of Topić’s diagnosis back in October, explaining that the 19-year-old had undergone a procedure to allow for a biopsy, which confirmed the presence of testicular cancer.
“He has a tremendous group of oncologists both at OU and MD Anderson,” Presti said at the time. “They are extremely positive about his outlook in dealing with this situation.”
It’s worth noting that testicular cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer among men, and Topić’s medical team has recommended chemotherapy as the best course of action. According to Presti, Topić chose to keep the diagnosis private until he had officially begun treatment - a decision that speaks to the young guard’s maturity and focus during what’s undoubtedly been a difficult chapter.
Topić’s path to the NBA was already marked by adversity. Once considered a top-five prospect in the 2024 NBA Draft, his draft stock took a hit after he suffered a partially torn left ACL. Despite the injury, Oklahoma City selected him 12th overall, betting on his long-term upside - a smart move for a franchise known for its patience and player development.
He managed to suit up for one preseason game before the cancer diagnosis emerged, effectively ending what was already a delayed rookie season. But the Thunder have stood by him every step of the way, and seeing him back on the court, even just for warmups, is a testament to his resilience and the support system around him.
There’s still a long road ahead for Topić, both in terms of his health and his NBA future. But moments like this - a young player quietly getting shots up before a game, surrounded by teammates - are reminders that progress isn’t always measured in minutes played or points scored. Sometimes, just being back on the court is a win in itself.
And for Nikola Topić, this was one of those wins.