Thunder Rookie Nikola Topic Makes Emotional NBA Debut After Chemotherapy

Coach Mark Daigneault praises Topic's resilience and the team's support after his first game action in months

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Oklahoma City Thunder rookie Nikola Topic made his NBA debut on Thursday, just four months after being diagnosed with testicular cancer and undergoing three rounds of chemotherapy. Though the Thunder lost 110-93 to the Milwaukee Bucks, head coach Mark Daigneault was thrilled to see Topic take the court and praised his resilience through a difficult personal journey.

Why it matters

Topic's debut is an inspiring story of perseverance in the face of adversity. As a young player just starting his professional career, his ability to recover from a serious health scare and return to the court speaks to his determination and the support of his team and family.

The details

Daigneault subbed Topic into the game late in the first quarter, and the rookie received a standing ovation from the Paycom Center crowd. Though Topic finished with just 2 points, 1 assist and 1 rebound in 12 minutes, Daigneault emphasized that he is still in the early stages of regaining his full strength and conditioning after the physical toll of chemotherapy.

  • Nikola Topic was diagnosed with testicular cancer in October 2025.
  • Topic underwent three rounds of chemotherapy before making his NBA debut on February 13, 2026.

The players

Mark Daigneault

The head coach of the Oklahoma City Thunder, who was thrilled to see Nikola Topic make his NBA debut after the young player's battle with cancer.

Nikola Topic

A 2024 first-round draft pick of the Oklahoma City Thunder, who made his NBA debut just four months after being diagnosed with testicular cancer and undergoing chemotherapy.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Thrilled for him. He's obviously been through a ton of adversity in his life in his last couple of years. He's a young guy that all he wants to do is play basketball, and that's been taken from him a couple of different times. For him to work himself to this point, get himself on the floor, is a great accomplishment.”

— Mark Daigneault, Head Coach, Oklahoma City Thunder (ClutchPoints)

“I can't help but think of his family, as well. I have young kids at home, and it's pretty hard to even think about what his family has gone through at all. He's got a wonderful family that loves him very much that was through this with him the entire time. So, I'm thrilled for them, and certainly a very feel-good night for his family, for him, and for our team despite the fact that we didn't play our best game.”

— Mark Daigneault, Head Coach, Oklahoma City Thunder (ClutchPoints)

What’s next

The Thunder will continue to monitor Topic's progress as he works to regain his full strength and conditioning following chemotherapy. The team has not set a timetable for when he may be able to play extended minutes.

The takeaway

Nikola Topic's NBA debut, just months after a cancer diagnosis, is an inspiring story of resilience and the power of determination. Though he still has a long road ahead, his return to the court is a testament to his own hard work and the support of his team and family.