Jokic's Emotional Words on Nikola Topic: "It makes things harder, but it makes you better" /VIDEO/

Pulse Sports Team 17:50 - 23 October 2026

The Denver Nuggets had an underwhelming start to the new NBA season, falling 96-84 to the Oklahoma City Thunder, while Nikola Jokic finished with 13 points, seven rebounds, and five assists on a tough shooting night.

However, the game quickly took a back seat as reporters were primarily interested in Jokic's relationship with Nikola Topic, who successfully overcame his toughest battle last season by defeating testicular cancer.

The three-time MVP's heartfelt words about his bond with the young prospect and his brave fight quickly resonated across social media.

"I played with him last year on the Serbian national team. He's a young, talented guy who has been through a lot and fought hard. He has talent, and we need to help him in any way we can because he went through so much. Maybe just through company, friendship, maybe going out for dinner. When something like that happens, you're on your own, whatever you do. He knows what he went through. Of course, his family was probably there for him, but mentally you are alone, and I think that makes things harder, but it also makes you better." – Nikola Jokic

In other NBA action, Philadelphia defeated Cleveland 114-106 behind 32 points from Tyrese Maxey and 24 points from Joel Embiid, while on the other side Jaylen Brown scored 21 and LeBron James posted 17 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists.