Home/NBA
feature-image

via Imago

feature-image

via Imago

Nikola Topic is quickly becoming one of the brightest prospects out of Europe. With elite court vision, confidence, and a polished feel for the game, it’s easy to see why scouts are raving about him. But his ascent traces back to a paternal legacy that dominated European hoops. It all begins with his father, a Serbian legend in his own right.

Topić soared through Crvena zvezda’s youth ranks, earning ABA League Top Prospect honors in 2024, before the Oklahoma City Thunder made him the 12th overall pick. But his polished court vision and poise trace back to his father’s influence. Milenko Topic is a name that resonates with Serbian basketball fans as both a player and a mentor. Though his mother remains out of the public eye, the Topic household has clearly been a strong foundation for greatness.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Who is Nikola Topic’s father?

Milenko Topic is the father of Nikola Topic and a Serbian basketball icon. Standing 2.05 m, Milenko Topić cut his teeth in Pančevo’s local YUBA League courts before breakthrough stints in Belgrade. He suited up for the likes of Profikolor, BFC Beočin, Crvena zvezda, Budućnost, and Hemofarm. Known for his high basketball IQ and gritty style of play, he later extended his career into Italy and Greece. There, he played for Montepaschi Siena, Olimpia Milano, and Rethymno.

Topić starred for FR Yugoslavia at Atlanta ’96 (silver) and Istanbul ’97 (EuroBasket gold), then powered to FIBA World Cup gold in ’98—all before capping his national-team run with a EuroBasket ’99 bronze. During those runs, he wasn’t just a bench piece. He contributed with efficient scoring and strong rebounding, once shooting “72.7% from the field across a full tournament.”

After retiring in 2008, Milenko transitioned into coaching. His biggest impact came with Crvena zvezda, where he served as both assistant and interim head coach. When thrust into the lead role in 2018, he guided the team to a flawless “10–0 record,” further cementing his legacy. Whether on the floor or on the sidelines, Milenko brought the same steady, cerebral presence that now echoes in his son’s playing style.

Who is Nikola Topic’s mother?

Unlike her husband, Nikola Topic’s mother has chosen to stay out of the spotlight. Nikola’s mother, who has never granted an interview, declines public attention—an intriguing blank slate in an otherwise well-documented dynasty. Still, her influence runs deep in the Topic household.

While Milenko passed down the basketball knowledge, Nikola’s mother likely played an equally vital role behind the scenes. She may have offered emotional support, stability, and discipline. In many successful athlete families, it’s the unseen contributions that lay the foundation for greatness. It seems Nikola had that balance. On one side, the technical wisdom from his father. On the other, the quiet strength from his mother.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

What’s your perspective on:

Is Nikola Topic destined to surpass his father's legendary status in European basketball history?

Have an interesting take?

Even though the public doesn’t know much about her, one thing is certain. The values she helped instill are showing up on courts across Europe every time Nikola steps into a game.

What is Nikola Topic’s parents’ nationality?

Serbia shaped Nikola Topic’s early game—born in Novi Sad and honed in Crvena Zvezda’s youth ranks. And his father, Milenko Topic, proudly shares the same heritage. Born in the former Yugoslavia, Milenko’s basketball story unfolded across some of Serbia’s most storied clubs and international arenas. His national team accomplishments speak to a strong connection with his country’s hoops culture. It emphasizes grit, teamwork, and relentless competitiveness.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

As for Nikola’s mother, her nationality has not been disclosed publicly. However, given the family’s deep roots in Serbian basketball and Nikola’s development within the national pipeline, it’s likely that her cultural influence aligns closely with Serbian traditions as well.

Together, the Topic parents have created an environment that blends passion, humility, and competitive fire. It’s an environment that continues to shape Nikola’s rise as one of Serbia’s most promising young stars.

ADVERTISEMENT

0
  Debate

Is Nikola Topic destined to surpass his father's legendary status in European basketball history?

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT