Introduction to Nikola Topić’s Diagnosis
Overview of the Situation
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Oklahoma City Thunder guard Nikola Topić has been diagnosed with testicular cancer, according to general manager Sam Presti.
The Diagnosis and Treatment
Presti said Topić, 20, began chemotherapy after the diagnosis and that doctors are "extremely positive" with his long-term outlook, as reported by ESPN.
After undergoing a procedure back in early October, Topić received the results and asked that the Thunder not release the diagnosis to the public until he began his chemotherapy treatments.
Nikola Topic poses for a photo with NBA commissioner Adam Silver after being selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder as the 12th pick during the first round of the NBA basketball draft, Wednesday, June 26, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Julia Nikhinson)
Understanding Testicular Cancer
Testicular cancer is uncommon but can occur at any age, according to the Mayo Clinic. Most of those who are diagnosed are between the ages of 15 and 45.
There are two types of testicular cancer: seminoma, described as a slow-growing cancer, and non-seminoma, where the cancer grows more rapidly, the Cleveland Clinic explains. The latter is more common in younger patients.
Treatment can vary; options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Topić’s Recovery and Return to Basketball
There is no timeframe as to when Topić will return to the court, but he is able to work out while beginning chemotherapy, according to ESPN.
"Our only expectations for him are to focus on this," Presti said. "This is his most important priority. He’ll be back playing basketball when he’s able to, but we’re not putting any time length or expectations on that, obviously. He has our total support, encouragement and love."
The Thunder drafted Topić as the No. 12 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft.
The point guard from Serbia sat out last season to recover from a torn ACL. Topić appeared in a preseason game in early October, a day before the team said he would be out following a testicular procedure, The Athletic reports.
Conclusion
Nikola Topić’s diagnosis with testicular cancer is a challenging situation for the young athlete, but with the support of his team and medical professionals, he is undergoing treatment with a positive long-term outlook. The Oklahoma City Thunder and its fans will be eagerly awaiting his return to the court, but for now, the focus is on his health and recovery.
FAQs
What type of cancer does Nikola Topić have?
Nikola Topić has been diagnosed with testicular cancer.
What is the prognosis for Nikola Topić?
Doctors are "extremely positive" with his long-term outlook.
When will Nikola Topić return to basketball?
There is no timeframe for his return to the court, but he is able to work out while undergoing chemotherapy.
How common is testicular cancer?
Testicular cancer is uncommon but can occur at any age, with most diagnoses occurring between the ages of 15 and 45.
