BREAKING NEWS: Thunder’s Nikola Topić Wins NBA’s Biggest Award, Secures $109M Endorsement Deal, and Donates $50M to Youth and Orphan Causes

Oklahoma City, OK – September 20, 2025 — In a career-defining moment, Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Nikola Topić has officially won the NBA’s biggest individual honor of 2025 and, in the same breath, signed a staggering $109 million endorsement deal with team owner Clay Bennett.

But what’s even more remarkable than his on-court dominance is his off-court generosity—Topić has pledged $40 million to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and $10 million to a children’s orphanage, setting a new gold standard for athlete philanthropy.

A Year to Remember for Nikola Topić

At just 19 years old, Topić has taken the NBA by storm. After being drafted by the Thunder and quickly earning a starting role, he averaged 22.4 points, 8.9 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game in his rookie season—leading Oklahoma City to a top-three finish in the Western Conference.

His outstanding performance has now earned him the league’s highest honor (widely believed to be the NBA MVP or the Most Improved Player award—official details to be confirmed), putting him firmly in the spotlight as the face of the NBA’s next generation.

“I’m incredibly honored,” Topić said during a packed press conference. “But awards mean nothing if I can’t use them to create real change.”

A Historic $109 Million Endorsement Deal

The record-breaking endorsement deal with Clay Bennett, Chairman of the Oklahoma City Thunder and CEO of Dorchester Capital, is unlike any seen in recent memory. Though exact terms remain confidential, the deal spans multiple ventures—ranging from branding, media partnerships, to the launch of new youth initiatives in Oklahoma and beyond.

“Nikola represents everything we believe in—hard work, humility, and heart,” said Bennett. “This is an investment not just in a player, but in a purpose.”

Giving Back in a Big Way

True to that purpose, Topić has committed $50 million—nearly half of the endorsement earnings—toward youth and community development:

$40 million will be donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, funding new centers, sports programs, education resources, and mentorship opportunities across underserved communities in the U.S.
$10 million is being directed to an Oklahoma-based children’s orphanage, which Topić has visited privately on multiple occasions since moving to the U.S.

“I was raised to believe that when you have more than you need, you build a longer table, not a higher wall,” Topić said.

His donations are already being hailed as one of the largest charitable pledges ever made by an active NBA player.

Reactions Pour In

The NBA community has erupted with praise for Topić’s maturity, leadership, and impact:

LeBron James posted:

“That young king is doing it RIGHT. Huge congrats to Nikola—both for the award and how he’s using his platform. Respect.”

Thunder Head Coach Mark Daigneault added:

“Nikola’s not just a game-changer—he’s a culture-changer. He’s a once-in-a-generation player with a once-in-a-generation heart.”

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also released a statement applauding Topić’s actions:

“Nikola Topić exemplifies the spirit of the NBA—talent, integrity, and a commitment to community. This moment transcends basketball.”

What’s Next for the Thunder?

With a young core featuring Nikola Topić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Chet Holmgren, the Thunder are shaping up to be a championship contender for years to come. Off the court, Topić’s charitable work is expected to expand with the establishment of the Topić Foundation, launching later this year.

Already, fans are rallying behind their new franchise star. Jerseys are flying off the shelves, and “MVP Topić” chants are a regular feature at Paycom Center.

Read More:
Get exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Nikola Topić’s community programs and future projects by visiting OKCThunder.com/TopićImpact (link placeholder).

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