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Nikola Topić

Nikola Topić is a Serbian professional basketball player for the Oklahoma City Thunder of the National Basketball Association (NBA).

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Nikola Topić is a Serbian professional basketball player for the Oklahoma City Thunder of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Born on August 10, 2005, in Novi Sad, Serbia, he plays as a guard and was selected 12th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft. Topić has also played for Crvena zvezda and won major youth and club honours in Serbia and Europe.

Early life and background

Nikola Topić was born on August 10, 2005, in Novi Sad, Serbia. He developed as a basketball prospect in Serbia and came through the youth system of Crvena zvezda.

Professional career

Topić began his professional career in Europe with Crvena zvezda, playing in domestic and European competitions. He entered the 2024 NBA Draft and was selected 12th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder. After recovering from injuries, he joined the Thunder roster and made his NBA debut during the 2025–26 season. The Thunder roster includes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a fellow guard.

Injuries and health

Topić missed his rookie season after suffering a partial ACL tear in his left knee that required surgery. He later missed additional time after being diagnosed with testicular cancer and undergoing treatment for the condition.

Achievements

Topić won team honours with Crvena zvezda, including domestic league titles and regional cups. He also earned individual recognition at the youth international level, being named MVP of the 2023 FIBA U18 European Championship. He is one of several European players in the NBA, such as Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Key facts

  • Nikola Topić was born on August 10, 2005, in Novi Sad, Serbia.
  • He was drafted 12th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2024 NBA Draft.
  • He plays guard and point guard, listed at 6 ft 6 in and 200 lb.
  • He played for Crvena zvezda in Serbia and European competitions.
  • He missed time with a knee injury and later underwent treatment for testicular cancer.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Nikola Topić?
Nikola Topić is a Serbian professional basketball guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder.
When was Nikola Topić born?
He was born on August 10, 2005.
What team drafted Nikola Topić?
The Oklahoma City Thunder selected him 12th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft.
What position does Nikola Topić play?
He is listed as a guard and point guard.
What injuries or illnesses has he had?
He missed time with a left knee ACL injury and later underwent treatment for testicular cancer.
What club did he play for before the NBA?
He played for Crvena zvezda in Serbia.

References

  1. NBA — https://www.nba.com/player/1642260/nikola-topic
    Supports: Current player profile, height, weight, nationality, birthdate, draft selection, team, and status.
  2. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/nba/player/bio/_/id/5159925/nikola-topic
    Supports: Biography, team, position, height/weight, birthdate, and draft information.
  3. CBS Sports — https://www.cbssports.com/nba/players/29275375/nikola-topic/
    Supports: Draft position, injury history, and NBA statistical summary.
  4. EuroLeague Basketball — https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nikola-topic/profile/010985/
    Supports: Club achievements, youth international honours, and Serbian competition titles.
  5. Basketball-Reference — https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/t/topicni01.html
    Supports: Birthplace, birthdate, height, weight, draft details, and career information.