Isiah Thomas reveals he is suffering from Bells palsy: 'That's what's happening with my mouth right now'

If you have been watching Isiah Thomas lately on TV, you might have noticed him speaking differently. Isiah has always been known as an eloquent speaker, but lately, he has had difficulty opening his mouth and pronouncing his words correctly. It turns out that Zeke is suffering from a neurological disorder called Bells palsy.

Isiah was on air again recently for the second part of his interview on 'The Mark Jackson Show.' Thirty minutes into the interview, he explained why his current speaking and appearance was off.

"I know people are watching, and I've gotten a lot of love from people who have said, 'Well, what is he going through?'" said Zeke. "And I haven't really told anybody. I've got Bell's palsy, and that's why you see me like this."

The weakening of the facial muscles

According to the Mayo Clinic website, Bells Palsy is 'a condition that causes sudden weakness of the muscles on one side of the face.' Some people with Bell's palsy have muffled or slurred speech due to muscle weakness. That's the main symptom that Zeke is showing right now.

Despite his condition, the interview went fine, and Thomas got his points through. However, Zeke just wanted everyone to know why he may be looking and talking funny.

"I appreciate the prayers and the love, but that's what's happening with my mouth right now," added Thomas. "I just want everyone to know who's going to be watching this show."

Joel Embiid was also diagnosed with Bell's Palsy

In the 2023 NBA, MVP Joel Embiid was also diagnosed with the same illness before his Philadelphia 76ers faced the New York Knicks in the 2024 NBA Playoffs. Although he said it was bothersome, Embiid still averaged 33.0 points and 10.8 rebounds per game in that playoff series.

In the past, ex-NBA players like Trenton Hassell, Evan Turner, and Pete Maravich also suffered from Bell's palsy. Even popular actors like Pierce Brosnan and George Clooney once dealt with the illness.

The weakening of the facial muscles is often short-term. It's unclear when Isiah was diagnosed, but medical experts say improvements should be seen after a couple of weeks, with a full recovery at six months. Some symptoms, however, remain with some people for life. Prayers up for Zeke.