Oklahoma City Thunder guard Nikola Topic has begun chemotherapy after being diagnosed with testicular cancer, the team confirmed this week.
The 20-year-old underwent a biopsy on October 6 at Houston’s MD Anderson Cancer Center, which confirmed the diagnosis.
Thunder general manager Sam Presti told reporters that the medical team is “extremely positive” about Topic’s outlook moving forward.
“The results of the biopsy have been returned and he is dealing with a case of testicular cancer,” Presti said. “Topić didn’t want to make this information public until he had begun the actual treatments, which he has recently. He’s been in here, he’s training, he’s working out — through this entire process he’s been able to do that.”
Presti added that the young guard has great oncologists overseeing his care.
“He has a tremendous group of oncologists… and they are extremely positive about his outlook in dealing with the situation. It’s important to note that testicular cancer is the most curable form of cancer among males, but the treatment option for him right now, recommended by the oncologist, is chemotherapy.”
The GM noted that the Serbian native is keen to return to the basketball court when he is able.
“Our only expectations for him are to focus on this. This is his most important priority. He’ll be back playing basketball when he’s able to, but we’re not putting any time length or expectations on that,” Presti said. “He has our total support, encouragement, and love.”
Topic was selected 12th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft and is yet to make his debut for Oklahoma City after suffering a severe knee injury last year.
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