Basketball Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas shared on the “Come And Talk 2 Me” podcast this week that he is currently dealing with Bell’s palsy.
“I’ve received a lot of support from people wondering what I’m going through,” Thomas revealed on the show hosted by former NBA point guard and ESPN broadcaster Marc Jackson and his son. “I haven’t shared this with many, but I have 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.”
During an appearance on NBA TV’s pregame show on Friday evening, Thomas mentioned that the condition is temporary.
“As you know, I have a bit of Bell’s palsy,” Thomas stated. “I’m managing it. I’m not taking a break, but I just want everyone to know that I appreciate your prayers and thank you for everything. They said it’s a temporary condition. It will improve over time. But thank you for sticking with me.”
According to the Mayo Clinic, Bell’s palsy results in weakness in muscles on one side of the face and is typically a short-term condition that improves over time.
Thomas’ disclosure comes after Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers was diagnosed with Bell’s palsy during the team’s playoff run last spring.
Thomas had a successful career, playing for the Detroit Pistons from 1981-1994 and later coaching the Indiana Pacers, New York Knicks, and Florida International University. He achieved two NBA titles, was a 12-time All-Star, and a member of three All-NBA First Teams. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2000.