OKC Blue's Nikola Topic Returns to Basketball After Cancer Diagnosis

Thunder coach Mark Daigneault praises Topic's mental toughness and resilience in comeback

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Nikola Topic, a 20-year-old guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder's G-League affiliate OKC Blue, has returned to basketball after being diagnosed with testicular cancer in October 2025. Despite undergoing chemotherapy, Topic has remained physically strong enough to play in G-League games, impressing Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault with his performance and mental toughness.

Why it matters

Topic's return to basketball after overcoming cancer is an inspiring story that highlights his determination and resilience. As a lottery pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, his successful comeback could be a positive precedent for his long-term future in the league.

The details

Topic kept working out during his chemotherapy treatments, determined to continue pursuing his NBA dreams. He made his return to the court on Monday, playing 16 minutes for the OKC Blue and putting up 7 points, 1 rebound, and 7 assists. Daigneault praised Topic's mental toughness, maturity, and resilience, saying the team is "thrilled" to have him back playing basketball.

  • In October 2025, Topic was diagnosed with testicular cancer.
  • Topic played for the OKC Blue on Monday, February 10, 2026.

The players

Nikola Topic

A 20-year-old guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder's G-League affiliate OKC Blue, who was diagnosed with testicular cancer in October 2025 but has returned to basketball after undergoing chemotherapy.

Mark Daigneault

The head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, who has expressed pride and admiration for Topic's mental toughness and resilience in his comeback.

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What they’re saying

“Great accomplishment. I just can't say enough about him as a guy. His mental toughness, maturity, and resilience... We're all just collectively thrilled that he's back playing basketball. I know he's missed it a great deal. This is just so good for him mentally to get his feet back underneath him.”

— Mark Daigneault, Head Coach, Oklahoma City Thunder (Sporting News)

What’s next

As Topic continues his recovery and comeback, the Thunder will likely monitor his progress and gradually increase his playing time with the OKC Blue as he regains his full strength and conditioning.

The takeaway

Nikola Topic's inspiring return to basketball after overcoming testicular cancer demonstrates the power of determination, resilience, and the human spirit. His story serves as a testament to the strength of the human body and mind, and a reminder that with the right mindset, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome.