In a raw and emotional post on X, former NBA All-Star Isaiah Thomas bared his soul, sharing the pain of facing his late sister’s upcoming birthday—the first without her. The heartfelt message, posted on Sunday, struck a chord with fans, amassing over 1,600 likes in just four hours. Thomas, who most recently played for the Phoenix Suns in the 2023-24 NBA season, wrote:
“My older sisters birthday coming up… Damn!!! 1st one without you 💔🙏🏾… This s**t hurts me but damn it hurts me more seeing my parents suffer without my sisters smh.”
My older sisters birthday coming up… Damn!!! 1st one without you 💔🙏🏾… This shit hurts me but damn it hurts me more seeing my parents suffer without my sisters smh
— Isaiah Thomas (@isaiahthomas) July 6, 2025
The 36-year-old’s vulnerability resonated deeply, prompting an outpouring of support from fans across social media. Messages of love and prayers flooded in, showcasing the enduring admiration for the former Washington star, who remains a beloved figure both on and off the court.
@MiamisOG: “praying for you IT”
@Kenm0reSquare: “Love you, Isaiah🙏🙏”
@NbaSwingPass: “🙏 prayers to you and your family”
@MrAngry247: “So very sorry for your pain. I’d be lying if I said it gets better. ❤️🩹”
@Jaws2481: “You are one of the good ones. Truly sorry, for your loss.”
@NicThomasNBA: “Keeping you and your family in my prayers, Isaiah ❤️ 🙏”
Thomas, the 60th pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, carved out a remarkable career despite his underdog status. After solid stints with the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns, he soared to new heights with the Boston Celtics, earning All-Star honors. From 2015 to 2017, Thomas electrified fans, averaging 24.7 points, 2.7 rebounds, 6.0 assists, and 1.0 steals per game while shooting 44.3% from the field and 36.8% from beyond the arc across 179 games.
One of his most iconic performances came in 2017 against the Washington Wizards, when he erupted for 53 points, 4 assists, 4 rebounds, and 3 steals, shooting 55% from the field and 92% from the free-throw line, as highlighted by ThrowbackHoops. That game remains a testament to Thomas’s heart and tenacity, qualities that continue to endear him to fans.
As Thomas navigates this personal loss, the basketball community has rallied around him, offering a reminder that his impact transcends the court. His openness has not only humanized a sports icon but also sparked a wave of compassion, proving that even in grief, Thomas remains a unifying force.