Oklahoma City Thunder guard Nikola Topic made his long-awaited NBA debut on Thursday in a 110-93 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks. He received a standing ovation from the crowd upon entering the game, marking a triumphant return after undergoing chemotherapy for testicular cancer diagnosed in October.
In 12 minutes of play, Topic recorded 2 points, 1 rebound, and 1 assist. The 20-year-old Serbian, drafted 12th overall in 2024, had missed his entire rookie season due to the cancer diagnosis and a pre-draft ACL tear.
Topic recently played two G League games with the OKC Blue, averaging 14.5 points and 5.5 assists. His debut came as the Thunder were without several key players, including Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams, due to injuries.
The defending champion Thunder lead the Western Conference with a 42-14 record heading into the All-Star break.