76ers star Joel Embiid battles Bell's palsy

NBA MVP Joel Embiid scores 50 points with Bell's palsy, vows to keep pushing through the condition for the playoffs.

On a thrilling Thursday night in Los Angeles, NBA superstar Joel Embiid delivered a stunning performance, scoring a career-high 50 points to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a crucial victory over the New York Knicks. The win was much-needed for the 76ers, who were looking to bounce back in their NBA Eastern Conference playoff series.

However, amidst the celebrations and accolades for his incredible performance, reports emerged that Embiid was battling Bell's palsy. This condition, which causes weakness in the muscles of the face, had been a challenge for the Cameroon-born player for the past week. Despite the discomfort and challenges posed by the condition, Embiid confirmed that he had been playing through it since before the Sixers' clash with the Miami Heat.

In a post-game interview, Embiid opened up about his struggles with migraines and muscle weakness, particularly affecting his left eye and mouth. Sporting sunglasses to shield his eyes, Embiid expressed his frustration with the condition but emphasized his determination to persevere. "It's pretty annoying," he admitted, "but I'm not a quitter. It's unfortunate, but I've got to keep pushing."

The exact cause of Bell's palsy remains unknown, with theories suggesting it could be linked to nerve inflammation triggered by a viral infection. While symptoms typically improve within weeks and most individuals fully recover within six months, the uncertainty of the timeline weighed on Embiid's mind. "It could be weeks, it could be months," he shared, expressing his discomfort with the physical changes the condition brought.

This latest health setback adds to a series of challenges Embiid has faced, including a knee injury that required surgery earlier this year. Despite the obstacles, the resilient player made a triumphant return to the court to support his team's playoff aspirations. Embiid's courage and determination in the face of adversity serve as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the game he loves.