Patryk Stachowiak
From Draft to Diagnosis and Back
Nikola Topic walked onto the court in Oklahoma City on Thursday—his first NBA game after months away. The 12th pick in the 2024 draft had yet to play a professional minute before this night. A knee injury sidelined him early, then a testicular cancer diagnosis in training camp changed everything. Surgery in October, chemotherapy, and a slow rebuild followed.
The Serbian guard finally made his debut for the Thunder against the Milwaukee Bucks, a 110-93 loss. The numbers—2 points, 1 rebound, 1 assist—didn’t tell the full story.
A Standing Ovation and a First Basket
Topic checked in late in the first quarter. The Paycom Center rose for an ovation. In the second quarter, he sank a mid-range jumper just inside the free-throw line—his first NBA points. The crowd’s reaction mattered more than the stat line.
It was simply beautiful to see him out there. He’s faced so many challenges over the past two years. All he wanted was to play basketball, and more than once that was taken away from him. To get to this point is a huge milestone.
Mark Daigneault
The Thunder coach made it clear: this wasn’t about performance. Topic’s return was a step forward, not a finished product.
We’re still at the beginning of his return to game shape. This was just a unique window to integrate him into the group, without particular expectations. The important thing is that he’s back on the court and now on that path.
Mark Daigneault
G League Test Before the Call-Up
Topic’s path included a stop with the Oklahoma City Blue. On Monday, he logged 7 points and 7 assists in 16 minutes during an overtime win over the Sioux Falls Skyforce. The game was a test of rhythm, part of the team’s cautious plan.
More Than a Debut
Topic’s first NBA minutes were a milestone. A full return to form will take time, but this night was about more than basketball. It was proof of progress after setbacks—first an injury, then cancer. Now, he’s back where he belongs.