In a devastating blow to his promising basketball career, Serbian sensation Nikola Topić has been diagnosed with cancer following a routine medical examination for a knee injury. The shocking revelation came during his pre-draft assessment with the Oklahoma City Thunder, who selected the young guard as the 12th overall pick.
Unexpected Discovery During Routine Check
What began as a standard evaluation for an ACL injury uncovered something far more serious. Team physicians identified a cancerous growth behind Topić's knee, completely unrelated to his basketball injury. The 18-year-old prospect now faces an immediate pause in his athletic ambitions to focus on his health.
The Oklahoma City Thunder organization released an official statement confirming the diagnosis and their full support for the young player. 'Our primary concern is Nikola's health and well-being,' the statement read. 'We will provide every resource necessary for his treatment and recovery.'
Basketball Community Rallies Behind Topić
News of the diagnosis has sent shockwaves through the NBA community, with players, coaches, and fans expressing their support for the talented guard. Topić had been considered one of Europe's most promising prospects, drawing comparisons to some of basketball's greatest playmakers.
Despite the challenging circumstances, the Thunder remain committed to their new acquisition. Team representatives have emphasized that basketball considerations are secondary to Topić's health, though they remain optimistic about his long-term future in the sport.
What This Means for Topić's Career
Medical experts suggest that while the diagnosis is serious, early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes. The ACL injury that initially brought Topić in for examination may now prove to be a blessing in disguise, having led to the early cancer discovery.
Topić's treatment timeline remains uncertain, but the basketball world watches with hope as the young star prepares for the fight of his life – both on and off the court.
