Nikola Topić Makes G League Debut After Cancer Recovery

The Thunder prospect played 16 minutes in his first game since completing chemotherapy.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Oklahoma City Thunder prospect Nikola Topić made his G League debut with the OKC Blue, finishing with seven points and seven assists in 16 minutes against the Sioux Falls Skyforce. Topić, the Thunder's 2024 first-round pick, has been sidelined for much of the season after undergoing testicular surgery and being diagnosed with cancer, but has now progressed to returning to game action as part of his recovery.

Why it matters

Topić's return to the court represents a major milestone in his recovery from cancer, which came after he had already missed his rookie NBA season due to a torn ACL. His debut with the Blue signals that he is on track to potentially rejoin the Thunder later this season if his progress continues.

The details

Topić finished with seven points on 3-of-5 shooting and seven assists in 16 minutes of action as the OKC Blue edged the Sioux Falls Skyforce 137-135. The 20-year-old guard was the Thunder's 12th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft but has faced significant setbacks, first with a torn ACL and then a cancer diagnosis following testicular surgery in October.

  • Topić underwent testicular surgery in October 2025.
  • Topić was diagnosed with cancer following the October surgery.
  • Topić successfully completed chemotherapy on December 31, 2025.
  • Topić made his G League debut with the OKC Blue on February 10, 2026.

The players

Nikola Topić

A 20-year-old guard who was the Oklahoma City Thunder's 12th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. He has faced significant setbacks, including a torn ACL and a cancer diagnosis, but is now making his return to game action with the Thunder's G League affiliate, the OKC Blue.

Oklahoma City Thunder

An NBA franchise based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

OKC Blue

The Oklahoma City Thunder's G League affiliate team.

Sioux Falls Skyforce

A G League team based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

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What’s next

If Topić's progress continues, he could potentially rejoin the Oklahoma City Thunder later this season.

The takeaway

Topić's return to the court with the OKC Blue is a significant milestone in his recovery from cancer, which came after he had already missed a season due to a torn ACL. His debut signals that he is on track to potentially contribute to the Thunder later this season, demonstrating his resilience and determination to overcome major health challenges.