Nikola Topic’s story—rich with extraordinary talent, heart‑wrenching challenges, and unbreakable determination—reads like a cinematic screenplay against the backdrop of international sports. At just 20 years old, this Serbian basketball sensation has already lived experiences that would test veterans twice his age. From setting records as a teenager in Europe to becoming an NBA first‑round pick, then enduring physical injury and a cancer battle before making his long‑awaited debut, Topic’s journey is one defined by resilience and unshakeable belief.
Early Beginnings: A Prodigy From Novi Sad
Born on August 10, 2005, in Novi Sad, Serbia, Nikola Topic was introduced to the rhythm of basketball not through simple passion but through lineage and cultural heritage. Growing up in a basketball‑driven environment—his father, Milenko Topic, is a respected player and coach—Nikola was practically destined for the hardwood from his earliest days. It wasn’t long before his natural skills began to push him ahead of his peers.
At the tender age of 16, Topic entered the professional stage with Crvena zvezda, one of Europe’s most storied clubs. In March 2022, he made a striking debut in the ABA League, scoring four points and dishing out five assists. Notably, he became the youngest player in club history to score points in the league, cementing his reputation as a prodigious talent with extraordinary court vision, ball handling, and maturity beyond his years.
European Glory and Growing Stardom
As Topic continued his ascent through European basketball ranks, his skill set only sharpened. He excelled in the EuroLeague and the Adriatic League, earning valuable minutes and accolades. A loan move to Mega Basket during the 2023–24 season saw him average nearly 19 points and 7 assists per game—stellar numbers for a teenager facing seasoned professionals. His brilliance led to the prestigious ABA League Top Prospect award, an honor reflecting his immense impact and bright future in the sport.
This period of European success made international scouts and NBA executives take notice. Topic’s all‑around playmaking ability—paired with his size (6’6″) and flair for clutch moments—made him a prime candidate for the next step in global basketball.
NBA Dreams: Draft Night and Early Trials
In June 2024, Nikola Topic’s dream became reality when the Oklahoma City Thunder selected him with the 12th overall pick in the NBA Draft. It was a testament to his talent and potential, a chance to compete at the highest level of professional basketball and follow the footsteps of Serbian legends before him.
However, joy soon gave way to adversity. In April 2024, Topic suffered a devastating ACL tear while playing in Serbia—a blow that would sideline him for the entire 2024–25 NBA season. For many, a torn ligament represents a long, uncertain road back; for Topic, it was only the beginning.
The Battle Off the Court: Testicular Cancer Diagnosis
While Topic was steadily rehabbing his knee injury, life delivered another unimaginable challenge. In October 2025, during the Thunder’s preseason preparations, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. The news sent shockwaves through the basketball community. Topic, still just 20 years old, faced a health battle no athlete ever wants to endure.
He underwent surgery and began chemotherapy treatment, keeping his fight private until he had already begun treatment, a decision he made out of humility and a desire to focus on recovery rather than public attention. Thunder General Manager Sam Presti and the organization stood firmly behind him, emphasizing his well‑being over all else.
This period tested Topic’s strength like never before—not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. Wrestling with the uncertainty of his own health, he continued to train as best he could, maintaining his conditioning and preparing for the day he could return to competitive basketball. It was a demonstration of a young man who refused to yield to circumstances far tougher than any opponent on the court.
A Triumphant Return: G‑League Success and NBA Debut
After months of grueling treatment and rehab, Nikola Topic began to show glimpses of his extraordinary spirit. In February 2026, he made his G League debut with the Oklahoma City Blue, Oklahoma City’s affiliate team, putting up impressive numbers in a high‑scoring victory. The performance was more than stats—it was proof that Topic was back and ready to continue his journey.
Then, on February 12, 2026, Topic achieved a monumental milestone: he made his NBA debut with the Thunder in a game against the Milwaukee Bucks. The crowd’s standing ovation told its own story—one of admiration, respect, and collective emotion. Topic logged minutes on the floor, scored his first NBA points, and recorded his first assists and rebounds, all while showcasing the resilience that defined his journey.
This moment was more than just an athlete stepping on the court; it was the culmination of years of perseverance, setbacks, and unwavering faith. Fans, teammates, and commentators alike marveled at his composure, calling it one of the most inspiring returns in recent basketball history.
Beyond Basketball: A Symbol of Human Resilience
Nikola Topic’s rise and comeback transcend the sport itself. His story resonates because it reflects a universal truth: greatness isn’t measured by smooth victories but by how one confronts adversity. From Serbia’s junior leagues to the crucible of the NBA, he has faced every obstacle with determination and grace.
His journey shows young athletes around the world that setbacks—no matter how severe—can become stepping stones when met with relentless spirit. His fight against cancer, while continuing his professional aspirations, has made him a role model off the court and a beacon of hope for many facing their own battles.
The Road Ahead: Potential and Promise
Now fully cleared to train and compete, Nikola Topic stands on the cusp of what could be an extraordinary NBA career. His physical gifts—height, ball control, court vision, and scoring ability—paired with his mental toughness, position him as a future cornerstone for the Thunder or any top‑tier team. The NBA world watches with anticipation as he continues to grow, knowing that the best chapters of his story are still unwritten.
Nikola Topic’s path—from rising star in Europe to NBA draftee, from injury and illness to triumphant debut—is one of the most compelling narratives in modern sports. It reminds us that heroes are not defined merely by victories but by courage, perseverance, and the willingness to rise again—time and time again.
Buz Vista proudly shares this remarkable tale of unyielding spirit and sporting greatness, celebrating the extraordinary journey of Nikola Topic and inspiring readers everywhere to pursue their dreams, no matter the obstacles.