After recovering from a torn ACL injury and testicular cancer, the Serbian sensation is thankful for the faith and support of the Thunder organization.
Nikola Topic is beyond thankful and blessed to the Oklahoma City Thunder for sticking with him through thick and thin.
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The Serbian sensation spoke to the media for the first time after the team's 105-86 Friday win over the Brooklyn Nets.
“It was huge. Obviously, I gotta thank the Thunder organization as a whole. From the players to the coaching staff, the medical staff to the front office. They’re so supportive of everything and the whole process. Of course, the fans too," Topic said after a nine-point outing in 11 minutes to help the OKC victory.
"I'll remember that for the rest of my life."
Friday night against the Nets marked the second appearance of Topic since he fully recovered from his cancer treatment.
He made his first game as a pro last Feb. 12 against the Milwaukee Bucks. Topic notably obtained a warm standing ovation from the entire Paycom Center crowd as he entered the court.
Topic was diagnosed with a testicular cancer before the 2025-26 season began. The Thunder let him recover until it was announced in early January that he completed his chemotherapy sessions.
He remained active and involved in the team's practice and shooting sessions, as he was eventually cleared to finally play and wear a Thunder uniform.
It literally took Topic such time to wait for his first NBA game. His 2024-25 campaign was supposed to be his rookie season, but a torn ACL injury hindered him.
As he is now fit and fully recovered, the 20-year-old is highly spirited to play the game and help the defending champs.
“I learned a lot about myself. It’s kind of a weird situation, so you kind of learn a lot about your body and how your body reacts to different things," Topic said about his recovery.
"It was pretty good, pretty encouraging to see. I’m pretty grateful that right now I’m speaking to you guys.”
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