NBA Hall of Famer Isiah Thomas revealed on Thursday that he has been diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy.
The 63-year-old former Detroit Pistons point guard shared the news during an appearance on “The Mark Jackson Show” on YouTube. While discussing the NBA’s recently announced format with hosts Mark Jackson and his son, Mark Jackson Jr., Thomas opened up about his condition.
“I’ve received a lot of love from people asking, ‘What’s going on with Isiah? Is he okay?'” Thomas said. “I haven’t told anyone until now—I have Bell’s Palsy. That’s why you’re seeing me like this. I appreciate the prayers and love. That’s what’s happening with my mouth right now.”
“You look great to us,” Jackson responded, offering words of support.
Bell’s Palsy is a condition that causes sudden weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face, often leading to drooping. While the exact cause is unknown, it is believed to be linked to nerve irritation or viral infections. The condition is typically temporary, with symptoms improving over weeks or months.
Thomas also discussed his diagnosis on NBA TV Friday, thanking fans for their support over the past month. “I’m dealing with it and showing up. I just want everyone to know how much I appreciate your prayers,” he said.
He later posted a photo from the NBA TV set, captioned: “See you soon, @nbatv. I appreciate your prayers as I continue to recover from Bell’s Palsy.”
Known affectionately as “Zeke,” Thomas spent his entire 13-season NBA career with the Detroit Pistons before retiring in 1994. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2000, Thomas led the Pistons to back-to-back championships in the late 1980s and early 1990s, cementing their legacy as one of the NBA’s powerhouse teams.
After retiring, Thomas transitioned to a successful career as a sports analyst, contributing to NBA TV and Fox Sports. The NBA has yet to comment on Thomas’s announcement.
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