OKLAHOMA CITY — During Thursday’s 110-93 defeat to the Milwaukee Bucks at the Paycom Center, Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Chet Holmgren spoke about the emotional significance of rookie Nikola Topic’s first NBA appearance. Holmgren touched on how Topic’s remarkable comeback inspired the team and captured the attention of the basketball world.
Holmgren, who also missed his entire rookie season due to injury, emphasized that Topic’s challenges were of an entirely different nature. Diagnosed with testicular cancer in October 2025, Topic underwent three rounds of chemotherapy before returning to the court four months later. Holmgren profoundly acknowledged the resilience required to reach this moment.
Holmgren Expresses Deep Respect for Topic’s Courage
Chet Holmgren openly praised Nikola Topic’s strength in confronting his health battle, highlighting Topic’s character beyond basketball skills.
“Anybody battling cancer is fighting for their life. I could never begin to understand what that’s like. It just speaks to the strength of [Topić], and who he is as a person,”
Holmgren said.
“It would have been very justified for him to weigh everybody around him down and sulk, and be mad at the world because the kid he is, he doesn’t deserve that. We’re all just so happy that he was able to battle through that, get back to hooping.”
?Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Forward
Holmgren also commented on the visible joy that Topic exhibited on the court, regardless of the game’s outcome.
“You see a lot bigger smile on his face when he’s able to be out there with his shoes on. I thought he had a really good game tonight. He could have made 100 shots or missed 100 shots tonight; it was an amazing game for him. Being able to get out there, get some reps under his belt, and now, he can learn from them, we can learn from him, too.”
?Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Forward
The Role Nikola Topic Is Carving on the Thunder Roster
As the Thunder integrate Topic’s style into their gameplay, Holmgren identified the rookie’s role as a vital secondary playmaker for the team. He noted how Topic’s approach reflects an emphasis on teamwork and creating opportunities for his teammates.
“He’s a unique player. I feel like on the team, he’s probably the most pass-first guy,”
Holmgren said.
“He’s out there really trying to put guys in advantage situations, and then look to score second. We kind of got to learn that when he’s on the floor, and learn to play with him a little bit. As we get better with him and he continues to get better, I think it’s going to be really good.”
Despite his focus on Topic’s basketball abilities, Holmgren made it clear that seeing the rookie healthy was paramount.
“But all that stuff is secondary. First of all, we’re just happy he’s back to good health, and that he’s out there,”
Holmgren concluded. ?Chet Holmgren, Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Forward
Performance Highlights From the Thunder’s Game Against the Bucks
While the Thunder were unable to secure a win against the Bucks, Holmgren delivered a strong individual performance, recording a double-double with 16 points and 13 rebounds, along with two blocks. Off the bench, Isaiah Joe contributed 17 points, including four three-pointers, leading the team’s scoring effort. The match was a significant moment for the Thunder as they continue to adapt and rebuild around talents like Holmgren and Topic.
What Nikola Topic’s Return Means for the Thunder and Beyond
Nikola Topic’s NBA debut symbolizes much more than just a new player joining the Oklahoma City Thunder rotation. His journey reflects remarkable determination amid adversity, inspiring teammates and fans alike. Coming back from cancer treatment to compete at a professional level marks an extraordinary achievement, one that brings hope and motivation within the team and the wider basketball community.
Looking ahead, Topic’s presence as a developing playmaker offers the Thunder a fresh dynamic to their roster. As both the rookie and the team gain experience from upcoming games, they will likely build stronger chemistry, pushing the Thunder toward future successes. Holmgren’s own determination to rebound from injury alongside Topic’s resilience sets a tone of perseverance that could define Oklahoma City’s season.
Chet Holmgren’s heartfelt response to Nikola Topić’s NBA debut: “Anybody who’s battling cancer is fighting for their life. I could never begin to understand what that’s like.
It speaks to the strength of [Topić], who he is as a person… the kid he is, he doesn’t deserve that” pic.twitter.com/U1KwVvr3JQ
— Josue Pavón (@Joe_Sway) February 13, 2026
