Joel Embiid Battles Through Bell's Palsy, Drops 50 Points in Playoff Win

Philadelphia 76ers star center Joel Embiid has revealed that he has been playing through a Bell's Palsy diagnosis for the past 10 days, leading to partial paralysis on the left side of his face. Despite the condition, Embiid dropped 50 points in Game 3 of the playoffs against the New York Knicks, helping to keep the Sixers alive in the series.

In a surprising revelation, Philadelphia 76ers star center Joel Embiid disclosed on Thursday that he has been battling Bell's Palsy, a condition that causes partial paralysis of the face, for the past 10 days. Despite the diagnosis, Embiid has continued to play, showcasing his unwavering determination as the Sixers face elimination in the NBA playoffs.

Embiid shared the news of his condition with the media after Game 3's 125-113 win by Philly, a game in which he scored a playoff-high 50 points. Bell's Palsy is a temporary condition that typically affects one side of the face, causing weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles, and can lead to symptoms such as drooping eyelids, difficulty smiling, and impaired speech.

In Embiid's case, the left side of his face has been affected, leading to noticeable stiffness during the ongoing series against the New York Knicks. However, Embiid's performance in Game 3 demonstrated his resilience and determination, as he helped keep the Sixers' playoff hopes alive.

Embiid's diagnosis has raised concerns about his long-term health and the potential impact on his performance. However, the reigning MVP has expressed optimism that the condition will not hinder his abilities and is committed to playing through it.

"My body was just, I was just not feeling it," Embiid said when first identifying the symptoms. "But I'm not a quitter. I'm going to keep fighting through anything. It's unfortunate, that's the way I look at it. But it's not an excuse. I've got to keep pushing."

Embiid still struggles with migraines and rapid dryness in his left eye, but he is receiving treatment and is determined to manage the condition throughout the playoffs. Fans first noticed the slight stiffness on Embiid's face during Monday's Game 2 broadcast, particularly during a free throw attempt when his left eye could not blink in tandem with his right eye.

"Yes, it’s pretty annoying. My left side of my face, my mouth and my eye. It’s been tough. But I’m not a quitter. I’m going to keep fighting through anything. It’s unfortunate, that’s the way I look at it. But it’s not an excuse. I’ve got to keep pushing."

Embiid first noticed symptoms on April 17 after facing the Miami Heat in the play-in tournament. In this series, the center has worn glasses in postgame interviews, which Embiid admitted was due to the partial paralysis in his face.

"It hasn’t really necessarily gotten better," Embiid added. "With the conversations that I’ve had, it could be weeks, it could be months."

"I just hope that it stays like this. I’ve got a beautiful face. I don’t like when my mouth is looking the other way. Unfortunate situation but everything happens for a reason."

Despite the challenges posed by Bell's Palsy, Embiid remains focused on helping the 76ers advance in the playoffs. His unwavering determination and remarkable performance in Game 3 serve as a testament to his resilience and commitment to the team. As he continues to manage the condition, Embiid will undoubtedly receive the support of his teammates and fans as he aims to lead the Sixers to victory.