On Thursday, news spread like wildfire that OKC Thunder guard Nikola Topic had finished chemotherapy for testicular cancer.
The former first-round pick was diagnosed with the disease back in October after initially undergoing a smaller-scale procedure that was projected to keep him out of action for four to six weeks.
Since then, Topic has been working to get back on track. He was even seen back on the floor as early as mid-December, when he participated in pre-game warm-ups with the Thunder before their matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Just a few days ago, he was spotted again getting in a defensive workout with rookies Brooks Barnhizer and Chris Youngblood.
Now that he has officially finished treatment, there's serious optimism that the 20-year-old can work his way back into not only G-League action but NBA action as well.
Topic is still looking for his first career minutes in the NBA, as this diagnosis comes on the heels of missing the entirety of his rookie year last season due to a torn ACL.
Thunder guard's impending comeback is bigger than basketball
The Thunder would love to have Topic back in full form for their playoff run, but Presti and the rest of the organization will likely just be grateful to see him reunite with the team in good health.
Topic's situation isn't completely foreign to the NBA. Back in 2008, Nuggets big man Nene Hilario missed 37 games while he finished chemotherapy for the same diagnosis.
Fans have a surprise to look forward to whenever Topic is fully ready
Many may have forgotten the level of hype that surrounded the guard leading up to the 2024 NBA Draft, but Thunder fans could be in for a real treat when Topic finally steps onto the floor, whenever that may be.
Just two years ago, Bleacher Report categorized Topic as a "lead ball-handler" who is capable of creating plays for both himself and his teammates. He drew comparisons to players like Goran Dragic and even now-teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Whether it's later this year or the beginning of next season, the Thunder are likely itching to have another playmaker on the floor running within their already star-studded rotation.
At 31-7, OKC is in no rush to have their Serbian baller back in action, as they can afford to let him fully recover from his numerous health complications.
In the meantime, simply seeing him back on a basketball court should be extremely encouraging for both the team and fans alike.
Even with no exact timetable for his return, his current status of full health is more than enough.