Isiah Thomas, Two-Time NBA Champion, Reveals Battle with Bell’s Palsy
In a candid interview on former NBA coach Mark Jackson’s “Come And Talk 2 Me” podcast, Isiah Thomas, a two-time NBA champion, opened up about his personal health struggles. Thomas disclosed that he has been diagnosed with Bell’s palsy, a neurological condition that causes the muscles on one side of the face to weaken.
Thomas described how the condition has affected him, stating, “I’ve gotten a lot of love from people saying, ‘Well, Isiah’s sick. What is he going through?’ I haven’t really told anybody, but I’ve got Bell’s palsy. … That’s why you see me like this. I appreciate the prayers and the love. That’s what’s happening with my mouth right now. I just wanted everyone to know that.”
Bell’s palsy, as explained by the Mayo Clinic, can lead to facial muscle drooping and difficulty in closing one eye. The severity of symptoms varies from person to person, with some experiencing mild effects while others face more severe challenges. However, there is hope for improvement over time.
Interestingly, Thomas is not the only NBA player to have dealt with Bell’s palsy. Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers revealed that he was diagnosed with the condition prior to the playoff series against the New York Knicks in April. Despite his diagnosis, Embiid managed to average an impressive 33 points during the series.
Thomas, who spent his entire NBA career with the Detroit Pistons, earning 12 All-Star team nods and being named the NBA Finals MVP in 1990, has also made a name for himself as a coach. He has led teams such as the Indiana Pacers, New York Knicks, and even coached at the collegiate level.
This revelation from Thomas serves as a reminder that even the most accomplished athletes face health challenges. It also highlights the importance of raising awareness about Bell’s palsy and supporting those who are dealing with the condition.
Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.