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{{Short description|American basketball player and analyst (born 1963)}}
{{About|the American basketball player|other people named Charles Barkley|Charles Barkley (disambiguation)}}
{{distinguish|Charles Barkla|Gnarls Barkley}}
{{Good article}}
{{Pp-blp|small=yes}}
{{Use American English|date=August 2019}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=June 2020}}
{{Infobox basketball biography
| name = Charles Barkley
| image = 1 charles barkley 2019 (cropped).jpg
| image_size =
| caption = Barkley in 2019
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1963|2|20}}
| birth_place = [[Leeds, Alabama]], U.S.
| height_ft = 6
| height_in = 6
| height_footnote = <ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/22/sports/basketball/22score.html |title=When Height Becomes a Tall Tale |work=The New York Times |last=Lieberman |first=Noah |date=June 22, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180613020602/https://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/22/sports/basketball/22score.html |archive-date=June 13, 2018|quote="They lie," said Charles Barkley, a basketball commentator for TNT. "I've been measured at 6-5, 6-4 ¾. But I started in college at 6-6."}}</ref>
| weight_lbs = 252
| high_school = [[Leeds High School|Leeds]] (Leeds, Alabama)
| college = [[Auburn Tigers men's basketball|Auburn]] (1981–1984)
| draft_year = 1984
| draft_round = 1
| draft_pick = 5
| draft_team = [[Philadelphia 76ers]]
| career_start = 1984
| career_end = 2000
| career_position = [[Power forward]] / [[small forward]]
| career_number = 34, 32, 4
| years1 = {{nbay|1984|start}}–{{nbay|1991|end}}
| team1 = [[Philadelphia 76ers]]
| years3 = {{nbay|1992|start}}–{{nbay|1995|end}}
| team3 = [[Phoenix Suns]]
| years4 = {{nbay|1996|start}}–{{nbay|1999|end}}
| team4 = [[Houston Rockets]]
| highlights = * [[NBA Most Valuable Player Award|NBA Most Valuable Player]] ({{nbay|1992|end}})
* 11× [[NBA All-Star]] ({{nasg|1987}}–{{nasg|1997}})
* [[NBA All-Star Game Most Valuable Player Award|NBA All-Star Game MVP]] ({{nasg|1991}})
* 5× [[All-NBA First Team]] ({{nbay|1987|end}}–{{nbay|1990|end}}, {{nbay|1992|end}})
* 5× [[All-NBA Second Team]] ({{nbay|1985|end}}, {{nbay|1986|end}}, {{nbay|1991|end}}, {{nbay|1993|end}}, {{nbay|1994|end}})
* [[All-NBA Third Team]] ({{nbay|1995|end}})
* [[NBA All-Rookie First Team]] ({{nbay|1984|end}})
* [[List of National Basketball Association annual rebounding leaders|NBA rebounding leader]] ({{nbay|1986|end}})
* [[NBA anniversary team]] ([[50 Greatest Players in NBA History|50th]], [[NBA 75th Anniversary Team|75th]])
* No. 34 [[Philadelphia 76ers#Retired numbers|retired by Philadelphia 76ers]]
* {{abbr|No.|Number}} 34 [[Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor|retired by Phoenix Suns]]<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nba.com/suns/news/phoenix-suns-to-unveil-permanent-banners-and-murals-as-part-of-reimagined-ring-of-honor-during-home-opener-on-october-28 | title=Phoenix Suns to Unveil Permanent Banners and Murals as Part of Reimagined Ring of Honor During Home Opener on October 28 | website=[[NBA.com]] | access-date=October 29, 2023 | archive-date=October 29, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231029212141/https://www.nba.com/suns/news/phoenix-suns-to-unveil-permanent-banners-and-murals-as-part-of-reimagined-ring-of-honor-during-home-opener-on-october-28 | url-status=live }}</ref>
* Third-team [[NCAA Men's Basketball All-Americans|All-American]] – [[National Association of Basketball Coaches|NABC]] ([[1984 NCAA Men's Basketball All-Americans|1984]])
* [[Southeastern Conference Men's Basketball Player of the Year|SEC Player of the Year]] (1984)
* First-team All-[[Southeastern Conference|SEC]] (1984)
* 2× Second-team All-SEC (1982, 1983)
* [[SEC men's basketball tournament|SEC tournament MVP]] ([[1984 SEC men's basketball tournament|1984]])
* No. 34 [[Auburn Tigers men's basketball#Retired numbers|retired by Auburn Tigers]]
| stats_league = NBA
| stat1label = [[Point (basketball)|Points]]
| stat1value = 23,757 (22.1 ppg)
| stat2label = [[Rebound (basketball)|Rebounds]]
| stat2value = 12,546 (11.7 rpg)
| stat3label = [[Assist (basketball)|Assists]]
| stat3value = 4,215 (3.9 apg)
| HOF_player = charles-barkley
| CBBASKHOF_year = 2006
| medaltemplates = {{Medal|Country|the {{USA}}}}
{{Medal|Sport|[[United States men's national basketball team|Men's national basketball team]]}}
{{Medal|Competition|[[Basketball at the Summer Olympics|Olympic Games]]}}
{{Medal|Gold|[[Basketball at the 1992 Summer Olympics – Men's tournament|1992 Barcelona]] | [[Basketball at the 1992 Summer Olympics|Men's basketball]]}}
{{Medal|Gold|[[Basketball at the 1996 Summer Olympics – Men's tournament|1996 Atlanta]] | [[Basketball at the 1996 Summer Olympics|Men's basketball]]}}
{{Medal|Competition|[[FIBA Americas Championship]]}}
{{Medal|Gold|[[1992 FIBA Americas Championship|1992 Portland]]|[[1992 United States men's Olympic basketball team|Men's basketball]]}}
}}
'''Charles Wade Barkley''' (born February 20, 1963) is an American former professional [[basketball]] player who is a television analyst on [[NBA on TNT|TNT]] and [[CBS Sports]]. Nicknamed "'''Sir Charles'''", "'''the Bread Truck'''", and "'''the Round Mound of Rebound'''", Barkley played 16 seasons in the [[National Basketball Association]] (NBA). Though shorter than the typical [[Power forward (basketball)|power forward]], he used his strength and aggression to become one of the NBA's best [[rebound (basketball)|rebounders]] and scorers. Barkley was an 11-time [[NBA All-Star]], 11-time member of the [[All-NBA Team]], and the 1993 [[NBA Most Valuable Player]] (MVP). He was named to the [[50 Greatest Players in NBA History|NBA's 50th]] and [[NBA 75th Anniversary Team|75th anniversary teams]].
An [[NCAA Men's Basketball All-Americans|All-American]] at [[Auburn University]], Barkley was drafted as a junior by the [[Philadelphia 76ers]] with the fifth pick of the [[1984 NBA draft]]. In his rookie season, Barkley was named to the [[NBA All-Rookie First Team|All-Rookie First Team]] in [[1984–85 NBA season|1985]]. In the [[1986–87 NBA season|1986–87 season]], Barkley led the league in rebounding average and earned his first [[List of National Basketball Association annual rebounding leaders|rebounding title]]. He was named the [[NBA All-Star Game MVP|All-Star Game MVP]] in [[1991 NBA All-Star Game|1991]], and in 1993 with the [[Phoenix Suns]], he was voted the league's MVP while leading the team to the [[1993 NBA Finals|NBA Finals]]. He also competed in the [[Basketball at the 1992 Summer Olympics|1992]] and [[Basketball at the 1996 Summer Olympics|1996 Olympic Games]], winning two gold medals as a member of the [[United States men's national basketball team|U.S. national team]]. In 2000, Barkley retired as the fourth player in NBA history to achieve 20,000 [[point (basketball)|points]], 10,000 rebounds, and 4,000 [[Assist (basketball)|assists]].<ref name=nbah>{{cite web |website=nba.com |url=http://www.nba.com/history/players/barkley_stats.html |title=Charles Barkley Career Statistics |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100408043114/http://www.nba.com/history/players/barkley_stats.html |archive-date=April 8, 2010 |access-date=March 7, 2007}}</ref>{{efn|Since his retirement, [[Tim Duncan]], [[Kevin Garnett]], and [[LeBron James]] have joined the 20K/10K/4K Club.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Players Who Had 20000 Points 10000 Rebounds And 4000 Assists |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nba/ask/players-who-had-20000-points-10000-rebounds-and-4000-assists |access-date=2021-08-11 |website=StatMuse |language=en |archive-date=July 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210725222226/https://www.statmuse.com/nba/ask/players-who-had-20000-points-10000-rebounds-and-4000-assists |url-status=live }}</ref>}} Barkley is a two-time inductee into the [[Basketball Hall of Fame|Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame]], inducted in 2006 for his individual career and in 2010 as a member of the 1992 Olympic "[[1992 United States men's Olympic basketball team|Dream Team"]].<ref name=nhoh>{{cite web|url=http://www.hoophall.com/hall-of-famers/tag/charles-barkley |title=Charles Barkley |publisher=The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame |access-date=August 2, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090831072742/http://www.hoophall.com/hall-of-famers/tag/charles-barkley |archive-date=August 31, 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hoophall.com/hall-of-famers/tag/1992-united-states-olympic-team |title=1992 United States Olympic Team |publisher=The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame |access-date=August 14, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100818075707/http://www.hoophall.com/hall-of-famers/tag/1992-united-states-olympic-team |archive-date=August 18, 2010 }}</ref>
Barkley was popular with the fans and media and made the NBA's All-Interview Team for his last 13 seasons in the league.<ref name="nbaob">{{cite web |website=nba.com |url=http://www.nba.com/playerfile/charles_barkley/bio.html |title=Charles Barkley: Career Highlights |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130222072342/http://www.nba.com/playerfile/charles_barkley/bio.html |archive-date=February 22, 2013 |access-date=March 6, 2007}}</ref> He was frequently involved in on- and off-court fights and sometimes stirred national controversy, such as in March 1991 when he spat on a young girl while attempting to spit at a heckler,<ref>{{cite web |work=Los Angeles Times |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1991-03-27-sp-1008-story.html |title=Barkley Allegedly Spit at Fan and May Have Hit Little Girl |date=March 27, 1991 |agency=Associated Press |access-date=March 11, 2014 |archive-date=March 10, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140310063105/http://articles.latimes.com/1991-03-27/sports/sp-1008_1_charles-barkley |url-status=live }}</ref> and 1993 when he declared that sports figures should not be considered role models.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Norris |first=Luke |date=2020-04-13 |title=How Charles Barkley's Controversial 'I Am Not a Role Model' Nike Spot Came to Be |url=https://www.sportscasting.com/how-charles-barkleys-controversial-i-am-not-a-role-model-nike-spot-came-to-be/ |access-date=2021-06-15 |website=Sportscasting |archive-date=June 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210615041858/https://www.sportscasting.com/how-charles-barkleys-controversial-i-am-not-a-role-model-nike-spot-came-to-be/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Since retiring as a player, Barkley has had a successful career as an NBA analyst. He works for TNT on ''[[Inside the NBA]]'' alongside [[Shaquille O'Neal]], [[Kenny Smith]], and [[Ernie Johnson Jr.|Ernie Johnson]] as a studio pundit for its coverage of NBA games (for which he has won five [[Sports Emmy Awards]]).<ref name="nbabio"/> In addition, Barkley has written several books,<ref>{{Cite book |last=Barkley |first=Charles |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GQATEAAAQBAJ&q=charles+barkley |title=Who's Afraid of a Large Black Man? |date=2021-01-26 |publisher=Penguin |isbn=978-0-593-29847-3 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last1=Barkley |first1=Charles |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=bezzHAAACAAJ&q=charles+barkley |title=Sir Charles: Wit and Wisdom of Charles Barkely |last2=Reilly |first2=Rick |date=April 1995 |publisher=Grand Central Publishing |isbn=978-0-446-60230-3 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last1=Barkley |first1=Charles |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=m6wqAAAAYAAJ&q=charles+barkley |title=Outrageous!: The Fine Life and Flagrant Good Times of Basketball's Irresistible Force |last2=Johnson |first2=Roy S. |date=1992 |publisher=Simon and Schuster |isbn=978-0-671-73799-3 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Barkley |first=Charles |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=IKk_DwAAQBAJ&q=charles+barkley |title=I May Be Wrong but I Doubt It |date=2003-10-14 |publisher=Random House Publishing Group |isbn=978-0-8129-6628-2 |language=en}}</ref> and has shown an interest in politics.<ref name=cnn_gov>{{cite web |url=http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/10/27/brown.barkley/index.html |title=Transcript: Charles Barkley tells Brown racism is a cancer |publisher=CNN |date=2008 |access-date=October 28, 2008 |archive-date=September 15, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200915023259/http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/10/27/brown.barkley/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=cnbc>{{cite web |publisher=CNBC |url=https://www.cnbc.com/id/38264706/ |title=Twitter Users Are 'Idiots' |access-date=July 21, 2010}}{{dead link|date=November 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>
==Early life==
Barkley was born in [[Leeds, Alabama]], {{convert|17|mi}} east of [[Birmingham, Alabama|Birmingham]] and grew up there. He was the first black baby born at a segregated, all-white town hospital and was in the first group of black students at his elementary school.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Washington |first1=Jesse |title=Up From Leeds |url=https://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/12289603/how-former-nba-star-charles-barkley-became-role-model |publisher=ESPN |access-date=February 25, 2020 |date=February 12, 2015 |archive-date=May 12, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200512084511/https://www.espn.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/12289603/how-former-nba-star-charles-barkley-became-role-model |url-status=live }}</ref> His parents divorced when he was young after his father abandoned the family, which included younger brother Darryl Barkley. His mother remarried and they had a son, John Glenn. Another brother, Rennie, died in infancy. His stepfather was killed in an accident when Charles was 11 years old.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Karle |first1=Rick |title=Karle's Korner: Charles Barkley's Mother: The Real MVP! |url=https://www.wbrc.com/story/29388794/karles-korner-charles-barkleys-mother-the-real-mvp/ |website=wbrc.com |date=June 23, 2015 |access-date=February 25, 2020 |archive-date=February 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225184217/https://www.wbrc.com/story/29388794/karles-korner-charles-barkleys-mother-the-real-mvp/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Barkley attended [[Leeds High School]]. As a junior, he stood {{convert|5|ft|10|in|m|abbr=on}} and weighed {{convert|220|lb|kg}}. He failed to make the [[varsity team]] and was named as a reserve. However, during the summer Barkley grew to {{convert|6|ft|4|in|m|abbr=on}} and earned a starting position on the varsity as a senior. He averaged 19.1 points and 17.9 rebounds per game and led his team to a 26–3 record en route to the state semi-finals.<ref name=bbio/> Despite his improvement, Barkley received no attention from college scouts until the state high school semi-finals, where he scored 26 points against Alabama's most highly recruited player, [[Bobby Lee Hurt]].<ref name=bbio>Charles Barkley. (n.d.). Contemporary Black Biography. Answers.com, [http://www.answers.com/topic/charles-barkley Charles Barkley] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070430061608/http://www.answers.com/topic/charles-barkley |date=April 30, 2007 }}. Retrieved May 16, 2007</ref> An assistant to [[Auburn Tigers men's basketball|Auburn University's]] head coach, [[Sonny Smith]], was at the game and reported seeing, "a fat guy... who can play like the wind".<ref>Michael Wilbon, "Barkley: the Great Wide Hope", ''[[The Washington Post]]'', April 23, 1984</ref> Barkley was soon recruited by Smith and [[academic major|majored]] in [[business management]] while attending Auburn University.<ref name=bbio/>
==College career==
Barkley played [[college basketball|collegiate basketball]] for the [[Auburn Tigers men's basketball|Auburn Tigers]] for three seasons. Although he struggled to control his weight, he excelled as a player and led the SEC in rebounding each year.<ref name=nbaob/> He became a popular crowd-pleaser, exciting the fans with [[slam dunk|dunks]] and [[Block (basketball)|blocked shots]] that belied his lack of height and overweight frame. It was not uncommon to see the hefty Barkley grab a defensive rebound and, instead of passing, [[Dribble#Basketball|dribble]] the entire length of the court and finish at the opposite end with a two-handed dunk. His physical size and skills ultimately earned him the nickname "The Round Mound of Rebound" and the "Crisco Kid".<ref name="nbabio">{{Cite web |title=NBA.com: Charles Barkley Bio |url=https://www.nba.com/history/players/barkley_bio.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080723045446/https://www.nba.com/history/players/barkley_bio.html |archive-date=July 23, 2008 |access-date= March 5, 2007 |website=nba.com}}</ref>
During his college career, Barkley played [[center (basketball)|center]], despite being shorter than the average center. His height, officially listed as {{height|ft=6|in=6}}, is stated as {{height|ft=6|in=4}} in his book, ''[[I May Be Wrong but I Doubt It]]''. He became a member of Auburn's All-Century team and still holds the Auburn record for career field goal percentage with 62.6%.<ref name=tigers/> He received numerous awards, including [[Southeastern Conference]] (SEC) [[SEC Men's Basketball Player of the Year|Player of the Year]] (1984), three All-SEC selections and one Second Team [[All-America]]n selection.<ref>auburntigers.cstv.com, [http://auburntigers.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/112008aaa.html Auburn All-American Charles Barkley To Be Inducted Into National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame Sunday] {{Webarchive|url=https://archive.today/20120726092508/http://auburntigers.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/112008aaa.html |date=July 26, 2012 }}. Retrieved May 16, 2009</ref> Later, Barkley was named the SEC Player of the Decade for the 1980s by the ''[[Birmingham Post-Herald]]''.<ref name=tigers>auburntigers.cstv.com, [http://auburntigers.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/aub-centennial.html Official Site of Auburn Athletics: Men's Basketball] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100311013523/http://auburntigers.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/spec-rel/aub-centennial.html |date=March 11, 2010 }}. Retrieved April 5, 2007.</ref>
In Barkley's three-year college career, he averaged 14.1 points on 62.6% [[field goal percentage|field goal shooting]], 9.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.7 blocks per game.<ref name=tigers/> In [[1984 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament|1984]], he led the Tigers to their first [[NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship|NCAA tournament]] in school history and finished with 23 points on 80% field goal shooting, 17 rebounds, four assists, two steals, and two blocks.<ref>espn.com, [http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/boxscore?replayId=225 Richmond Spiders vs. Auburn Tigers – Box Score – January 01, 1984] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104215412/http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/boxscore?replayId=225 |date=November 4, 2012 }}. Retrieved May 17, 2009</ref> Auburn retired Barkley's No. 34 jersey on March 3, 2001.<ref name=tigers/>
[[File:Sonny Smith, Charles Barkley - Auburn University Lifetime Achievement Awards (cropped).jpg|thumb|Barkley with [[Sonny Smith]], his coach at [[Auburn University]]. ]]
He was one of 74 college players invited to the spring tryouts for the [[1984 United States men's Olympic basketball team|1984 U.S. Olympic team]] coached by [[Bob Knight]].<ref name="stmoc">{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1314&dat=19840423&id=yxhXAAAAIBAJ&pg=6549,4369733 |newspaper=Spokesman-Review |___location=(Spokane, Washington) |last=Blanchette |first=John |title=Stockton makes Olympic cut |date=April 24, 1984 |page=C1 |access-date=August 6, 2021 |archive-date=August 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210806101939/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1314&dat=19840423&id=yxhXAAAAIBAJ&pg=6549,4369733 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="wtgpog">{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=2_1LAAAAIBAJ&pg=1929%2C3211784 |newspaper=Spokane Chronicle |___location=(Washington) |last=Weaver |first=Dan |title=What's the going price of gold? |date=April 30, 1984 |page=11 |access-date=August 6, 2021 |archive-date=August 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210806101940/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=2_1LAAAAIBAJ&pg=1929,3211784 |url-status=live }}</ref> Barkley made the initial cut in April to the final 20, but was one of four released in May (with [[John Stockton]], [[Terry Porter]], and [[Maurice Martin]]) in the penultimate cut to 16 players.<ref name=bwgfg>{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=fJUpAAAAIBAJ&sjid=tccEAAAAIBAJ&pg=2676%2C3604837 |work=Times Daily |___location=(Florence, Alabama) |agency=staff, wire reports |title=Barkley won't go for gold |date=May 14, 1984 |page=5B |access-date=August 6, 2021 |archive-date=August 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210806150019/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=fJUpAAAAIBAJ&sjid=tccEAAAAIBAJ&pg=2676,3604837 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="bsiofs">{{cite news |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=H1hWAAAAIBAJ&pg=6603%2C8983107 |newspaper=Spokesman-Review |___location=(Spokane, Washington) |last=Blanchette |first=John |title=Basketball school is over for Stockton |date=May 14, 1984 |page=13 |access-date=August 6, 2021 |archive-date=August 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210806101939/https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=H1hWAAAAIBAJ&pg=6603,8983107 |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2010, Barkley admitted that he asked for and had been given, money from sports agents during his career at Auburn. Barkley called the sums he had requested from agents "chump change", and went on to say, "Why can't an agent lend me some money and I'll pay him back when I graduate?" According to Barkley, he paid back all of the money he had borrowed after signing his first NBA contract.<ref>{{cite web|last=Eisenberg |first=Jeff |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/Charles-Barkley-admits-he-received-money-from-ag?urn=ncaab-270502 |title=Charles Barkley admits he received money from agents at Auburn – The Dagger – NCAAB Blog – Yahoo! Sports |publisher=Yahoo! |access-date=March 13, 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140911221110/http://sports.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/Charles-Barkley-admits-he-received-money-from-ag?urn=ncaab-270502 |archive-date=September 11, 2014 }}</ref>
==Professional career==
===Philadelphia 76ers (1984–1992)===
Barkley left before his final year at Auburn and made himself eligible for the [[1984 NBA draft]]. He was selected with the fifth pick in the first round by the [[Philadelphia 76ers]], two slots after the [[Chicago Bulls]] drafted [[Michael Jordan]]. He joined a veteran team that included [[Julius Erving]], [[Moses Malone]], and [[Maurice Cheeks]], players who had taken Philadelphia to the [[1983 NBA Finals|1983 NBA championship]]. Under the tutelage of Malone, Barkley was able to manage his weight and learned to prepare and condition himself properly for a game; Barkley cited Malone as the most influential player of his career, and he often referred to him as "Dad".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/charles-barkley-on-moses-malone-i-called-him-dad/ |title=Charles Barkley on Moses Malone: 'I called him 'Dad' |work=CBS Sports |last=Herbert |first=James |date=September 13, 2015 |access-date=January 21, 2022 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211125143355/https://www.cbssports.com/nba/news/charles-barkley-on-moses-malone-i-called-him-dad/ |archive-date=November 25, 2021 }}</ref> He averaged 14.0 points and 8.6 rebounds per game during the regular season and earned a berth on the All-Rookie Team.<ref name=nbah/> In [[1985 NBA playoffs|the postseason]], the Sixers advanced to the [[Eastern Conference (NBA)|Eastern Conference]] Finals but were defeated in five games by the [[Boston Celtics]].<ref>{{cite web |work=databasebasketball.com |url=http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHI&yr=1984&lg=n |title=76ers 1984–85 Game Log and Scores |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303220236/http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHI&yr=1984&lg=n |archive-date=March 3, 2016 |url-status=usurped |access-date=March 11, 2007}}</ref> As a rookie in the postseason, Barkley averaged 14.9 points and 11.1 rebounds per game.<ref name=nbaob/>
During his [[1985–86 NBA season|second year]], Barkley improved his game under the leadership of [[Moses Malone]] during the off-season with his workouts, in the process he became the team's leading rebounder and number two scorer, averaging 20.0 points and 12.8 rebounds per game.<ref name=nbah/> He became the Sixers' starting power forward and helped lead his team into [[1986 NBA playoffs|the playoffs]], averaging 25.0 points on .578 shooting from the field and 15.8 rebounds per game.<ref name=nbah/> Despite his efforts, Philadelphia was defeated 4–3 by the [[Milwaukee Bucks]] in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. He was named to the [[All-NBA]] Second Team.<ref name=nbaob/>
[[File:Barkley Lipofsky.jpg|thumbnail|right|Barkley in 1991]]
Before the [[1986–87 NBA season|1986–87 season]], Moses Malone was traded to the [[Washington Bullets]] and Barkley began to assume control as the team leader. On November 4, 1986, Barkley recorded 34 points, 10 rebounds, and a career-high 14 assists in a 125–121 loss to the [[Indiana Pacers]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/198611040IND.html|title=Philadelphia 76ers at Indiana Pacers Box Score, November 4, 1986|publisher=Basketball-Reference|access-date=March 28, 2020|archive-date=March 3, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200303092335/https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/198611040IND.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On March 20, 1987, Barkley recorded 26 points, 25 rebounds (including a career-high-tying 16 offensive rebounds), and nine assists in a 116–106 win over the [[Denver Nuggets]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/198703200PHI.html|title=Denver Nuggets at Philadelphia 76ers Box Score, March 20, 1987|publisher=Basketball-Reference|access-date=April 24, 2020|archive-date=June 22, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200622041659/https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/198703200PHI.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He earned his first and only rebounding title, averaging 14.6 rebounds per game, and also led the league in offensive rebounds with 5.7 per game.<ref name=nbah/> He averaged 23.0 points on .594 shooting,<ref name=nbah/> earning his first trip to an [[NBA All-Star game]] and All-NBA Second Team honors for the second straight season. In [[1987 NBA playoffs|the playoffs]], Barkley averaged 24.6 points and 12.6 rebounds in a losing effort,<ref name=cbcstats>{{cite web |work=basketballreference.com |url=http://www.basketballreference.com/players/playerpage.htm?ilkid=BARKLCH01 |title=Charles Barkley Career Stats |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101212045444/http://basketballreference.com/players/playerpage.htm?ilkid=BARKLCH01 |archive-date=December 12, 2010 |access-date=February 10, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> for the second straight year, to the Bucks in a five-game first-round playoff series.<ref>{{cite web |work=databasebasketball.com |url=http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHI&yr=1986&lg=n |title=76ers 1986–87 Game Log and Scores |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303190817/http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHI&yr=1986&lg=n |archive-date=March 3, 2016 |access-date=March 11, 2007 |url-status=usurped}}</ref>
The [[1987–88 NBA season|next season]], Julius Erving announced his retirement and Barkley became the Sixers' [[franchise player]].<ref name=nbaob/> On November 30, 1988, Barkley recorded 41 points, 22 rebounds, five assists, and six steals in a 114–106 win over the Blazers. Playing in 80 games and getting 300 more minutes than his nearest teammate, Barkley had his most productive season, averaging 28.3 points on .587 shooting and 11.9 rebounds per game.<ref name="nbah"/> He appeared in his second All-Star Game and was named to the All-NBA First Team for the first time in his career. His celebrity status as the Sixers' franchise player led to his first appearance on the cover of ''[[Sports Illustrated]]''.<ref name=nbaob/> For the first time since the [[1974–75 NBA season|1974–75 season]], however, the 76ers failed to make [[1988 NBA playoffs|the playoffs]].<ref name=nbaob/> In the [[1988–89 NBA season|1988–89 season]], Barkley continued to play well, averaging 25.8 points on .579 shooting and 12.5 rebounds per game.<ref name=nbah/> He earned his third straight All-Star Game appearance and was named to the All-NBA First team for the second straight season.<ref name="nbabio"/> Despite Barkley contributing 27.0 points on .644 shooting, 11.7 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game,<ref name=cbcstats/> the 76ers were swept in the first round of [[1989 NBA playoffs|the playoffs]] by the [[New York Knicks]].<ref>{{cite web |work=databasebasketball.com |url=http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHI&lg=n&yr=1988 |title=Philadelphia 76ers 1988–89 Game Log and Scores |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303180827/http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHI&lg=n&yr=1988 |archive-date=March 3, 2016 |url-status=usurped |access-date=November 11, 2007}}</ref>
During the [[1989–90 NBA season|1989–90 season]], despite receiving more first-place votes,<ref>{{cite web |work=[[ESPN]] |url=https://www.espn.com/page2/s/list/MVPcontroversy.html?partnersite=espn |title=MVP Controversy |access-date=March 27, 2007 |archive-date=February 16, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090216083436/http://espn.go.com/page2/s/list/MVPcontroversy.html?partnersite=espn |url-status=live }}</ref> Barkley finished second in [[NBA Most Valuable Player Award|MVP]] voting behind the [[Los Angeles Lakers]]' [[Magic Johnson]].<ref>{{cite web |work=basketball-reference.com |url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/awards/awards_1990.html#mvp |title=1989–90 NBA MVP Voting |access-date=May 22, 2008 |archive-date=March 1, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080301141609/http://www.basketball-reference.com/awards/awards_1990.html#mvp |url-status=live }}</ref> He was named Player of the Year by ''[[The Sporting News]]'' and ''Basketball Weekly''.<ref name=nbaob/> He averaged 25.2 points and 11.5 rebounds per game and a career-high .600 shooting.<ref name=nbah/> He was named to the All-NBA First Team for the third consecutive year and earned his fourth All-Star selection.<ref name="nbabio"/> He helped Philadelphia win 53 regular-season games, only to lose to the [[Chicago Bulls]] in a five-game Eastern Conference Semi-finals series.<ref>{{cite web |work=databasebasketball.com |url=http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHI&yr=1989&lg=n |title=76ers 1989–90 Game Log and Scores |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303195348/http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHI&yr=1989&lg=n |archive-date=March 3, 2016 |access-date=March 11, 2007 |url-status=usurped}}</ref> Barkley averaged 24.7 points and 15.5 rebounds in another [[1990 NBA playoffs|postseason]] loss.<ref name=cbcstats/> His exceptional play continued into his [[1990–91 NBA season|seventh season]], where he averaged 27.6 points on .570 shooting and 10.1 rebounds per game.<ref name=nbah/> His fifth straight All-Star Game appearance proved to be his best yet. He led the East to a 116–114 win over the [[Western Conference (NBA)|West]] with 17 points and 22 rebounds, the most rebounds in an All-Star Game since [[Wilt Chamberlain]] recorded 22 in [[1966–67 NBA season|1967]].<ref name=nbaob/> Barkley was presented with Most Valuable Player honors at the All-Star Game and, at the end of the season, named to the All-NBA First Team for the fourth straight year.<ref name=nbaob/> That year, when the ''[[New York Times]]'' asked the [[San Antonio Spurs]] center [[David Robinson]] if he would choose Barkley or Jordan for his side in a hypothetical pickup game, Robinson said, "I would pick Barkley. When he is on his game, I think he has the biggest impact ever."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/03/17/magazine/headstrong.html |title=Headstrong |last=Coplon |first=Jef |work=The New York Times |date=March 17, 1991 |access-date=June 23, 2021 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=June 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210625014516/https://www.nytimes.com/1991/03/17/magazine/headstrong.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In [[1991 NBA playoffs|the playoffs]], Philadelphia lost again to Jordan's [[Chicago Bulls]] in the Eastern Conference Semi-finals, with Barkley contributing 24.9 points and 10.5 rebounds per game.<ref name=cbcstats/>
The [[1991–92 NBA season|1991–92 season]] was Barkley's final year in Philadelphia. In his last season, he wore number 32 instead of his 34 to honor [[Magic Johnson]],<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/11/13/sports/sports-people-pro-basketball-barkley-will-switch-to-johnson-s-no-32.html |title=Sports People: Pro Basketball; Barkley Will Switch To Johnson's No. 32 |work=The New York Times |date=November 13, 1991 |access-date=November 18, 2007 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160423073339/http://www.nytimes.com/1991/11/13/sports/sports-people-pro-basketball-barkley-will-switch-to-johnson-s-no-32.html |archive-date=April 23, 2016 |url-access=subscription}}</ref> who had announced prior to the start of the season that he was HIV-positive. Although the 76ers had initially retired the number 32 in honor of [[Billy Cunningham]], it was unretired, with Cunningham's approval, for Barkley to wear. After Johnson's announcement, Barkley apologized for having made light of his condition. Responding to concerns that players may contract HIV by contact with Johnson, Barkley expressed his opinion, "We're just playing basketball. It's not like we're going out to have unprotected sex with Magic."<ref>{{cite web |first=Chris |last=Weiskopf |url=http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1282/is_n7_v48/ai_18211328 |title=Return of HIV-positive Magic Johnson |url-status=dead |via=findarticles.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151017062024/http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1282/is_n7_v48/ai_18211328 |archive-date=October 17, 2015 |work=[[National Review]] |date=April 22, 1996 |access-date=March 6, 2007}}</ref>
In his final season with the Sixers, averaging 23.1 points on .552 shooting and 11.1 rebounds per game,<ref name=nbah/> Barkley earned his sixth straight All-Star appearance and was named to the All-NBA Second Team, his seventh straight appearance on either the first or second team. He ended his 76ers career ranked fourth in team history in total points (14,184), third in scoring average (23.3 ppg), third in rebounds (7,079), eighth in assists (2,276) and second in field-goal percentage (.576).<ref name=nbaob/> He led Philadelphia in rebounding and field-goal percentage for seven consecutive seasons and in scoring for six straight years.<ref name=nbah/> However, Barkley was said to have demanded a trade out of Philadelphia after the Sixers failed to make the postseason with a 35–47 record. That was later refuted by Charles Barkley himself, who said that he had not demanded a trade, but was not happy and wanted out. Rather than wait until his contract ran out and lose their superstar for nothing, the 76ers traded him.<ref name=nbabio/><ref>{{cite web |work=databasebasketball.com |url=http://databasebasketball.com/teams/teamyear.htm?tm=PHI&lg=n&yr=1991 |title=Philadelphia 76ers: 1991 Stats, History, Awards, and More |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303231040/http://databasebasketball.com/teams/teamyear.htm?tm=PHI&lg=n&yr=1991 |archive-date=March 3, 2016 |url-status=usurped |access-date=April 30, 2007}}</ref> Barkley was initially traded to the [[Los Angeles Lakers]] before the end of the season, but the 76ers wound up retracting their deal a few hours later.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://www.si.com/more-sports/2015/02/15/charles-barkley-analytics-interview-nba-all-star-weekend |title=A chat with Charles Barkley about basketball analytics, politics and beyond |last=Deitsch |first=Richard |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=February 15, 2015 |access-date=October 29, 2018 |archive-date=October 12, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181012054019/https://www.si.com/more-sports/2015/02/15/charles-barkley-analytics-interview-nba-all-star-weekend |url-status=live }}</ref> On July 17, 1992, he was officially traded to the [[Phoenix Suns]] in exchange for [[Jeff Hornacek]], [[Tim Perry]], and [[Andrew Lang (basketball)|Andrew Lang]].<ref name=nbabio/>
During Barkley's eight seasons in Philadelphia, he became a household name and was one of the few NBA players to have an action figure produced by [[Kenner]]'s [[Starting Lineup (toy line)|Starting Lineup]] toy line. He also had his own signature shoe line with [[Nike, Inc.|Nike]]. His outspoken and aggressive play, however, resulted in some on-court incidents, notoriously a fight with [[Detroit Pistons]] center [[Bill Laimbeer]] in 1990, which drew a record total $162,500 fine.<ref>{{cite news|title=Pistons and 76ers receive $162,500 and 3 bans|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1990/04/21/sports/basketball-pistons-and-76ers-receive-162500-fine-and-3-bans.html|access-date=March 6, 2007|newspaper=The New York Times|date=April 21, 1990|first=Sam|last=Goldaper|url-access=subscription|archive-date=November 7, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107082421/https://www.nytimes.com/1990/04/21/sports/basketball-pistons-and-76ers-receive-162500-fine-and-3-bans.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
====Spitting incident====
On March 26, 1991, during a game versus the [[New Jersey Nets]], Barkley attempted to spit on a fan who was allegedly heckling him with racial slurs, but the result was that his spit hit a young girl.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.complex.com/sports/2013/07/most-unsportsmanlike-acts-in-sports-history/charles-barkley-spits|title=The 50 Most Unsportsmanlike Acts in Sports History 39. Charles Barkley unintentionally spits on a little girl sitting courtside.|website=Complex.com|access-date=February 19, 2018|archive-date=February 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180219152048/http://www.complex.com/sports/2013/07/most-unsportsmanlike-acts-in-sports-history/charles-barkley-spits|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=spitquo>{{cite web |first=Larry |last=Platt |url=http://archive.salon.com/people/bc/2000/05/30/barkley/index1.html |title=People: Charles Barkley |work=Salon.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100114161518/http://archive.salon.com/people/bc/2000/05/30/barkley/index1.html |archive-date=January 14, 2010 |access-date=March 8, 2007}}</ref> [[Rod Thorn]], the NBA's president of operations at the time, suspended Barkley, without pay, for one game and fined him $10,000 for spitting and for verbally abusing the fan.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/03/29/sports/pro-basketball-barkley-fined-and-suspended.html |title=Pro Basketball: Barkley Fined and Suspended |work=The New York Times |date=March 29, 1991 |access-date=March 8, 2007 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=November 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107082333/https://www.nytimes.com/1991/03/29/sports/pro-basketball-barkley-fined-and-suspended.html |url-status=live }}</ref> It became a national story, and Barkley was vilified for it.<ref name="spitquo"/> Barkley, however, eventually developed a friendship with the girl and her family.<ref name=nbabio/> He apologized and, among other things, provided them with tickets to future games.<ref name=chuck>{{cite web |work=nba.com |url=http://www.nba.com/encyclopedia/barkley_hoopiss5volXXVII.html |title=You're a Good Man Charles Barkley! |access-date=March 8, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-date=May 15, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070515194421/http://www.nba.com/encyclopedia/barkley_hoopiss5volXXVII.html }}</ref>
After retirement, Barkley was later quoted saying in regard to his career, "I was fairly controversial, I guess, but I regret only one thing–the spitting incident. But you know what? It taught me a valuable lesson. It taught me that I was getting way too intense during the game. It let me know I wanted to win way too bad. I had to calm down. I wanted to win at all costs. Instead of playing the game the right way and respecting the game, I only thought about winning."<ref>{{cite magazine |magazine=Sports Illustrated |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/inside_game/jack_mccallum/news/2002/03/05/nba_insider/ |title=SI's Jack McCallum: Sir Charles speaks |access-date=March 8, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-date=February 26, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080226061537/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/inside_game/jack_mccallum/news/2002/03/05/nba_insider/ }}</ref>
===Phoenix Suns (1992–1996)===
The trade to Phoenix in the [[1992–93 NBA season|1992–93 season]] went well for both Barkley and the Suns. In his first game with the Suns, Barkley almost recorded a triple-double, racking up 37 points, 21 rebounds (12 of them offensive), and 8 assists in a 111–105 victory over the [[Los Angeles Clippers]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199211070PHO.html|title=Los Angeles Clippers at Phoenix Suns Box Score, November 7, 1992|website=basketball-reference.com|access-date=April 24, 2020|archive-date=May 7, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200507173736/https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199211070PHO.html|url-status=live}}</ref> He averaged 25.6 points on .520 shooting, 12.2 rebounds and a career-high 5.1 assists per game,<ref name=nbah/> leading the Suns to an NBA-best 62–20 record.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/history/season/19921993.html |title=1992–93 Season in Review |publisher=National Basketball Association |access-date=June 1, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070516023227/http://www.nba.com/history/season/19921993.html |archive-date=May 16, 2007 }}</ref> For his efforts, Barkley won the league's Most Valuable Player Award,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/awards/awards_1993.html#mvp|title=1992–93 NBA MVP Voting|work=basketball-reference.com|access-date=May 22, 2008|archive-date=April 4, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200404025712/https://www.basketball-reference.com/awards/awards_1993.html#mvp|url-status=live}}</ref> and was selected to play in his seventh straight All-Star Game. He became the third player ever to win league MVP honors in the season immediately after being traded, established multiple career highs and led Phoenix to their first [[1993 NBA Finals|NBA Finals]] appearance since [[1975–76 NBA season|1976]].<ref name=nbaob/> Despite Barkley's proclamation to Jordan that it was "destiny" for the Suns to win the title, they were defeated in six games by the [[Chicago Bulls]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1993/06/19/sports/pro-basketball-suns-shake-and-roll-bulls-rattle.html |title=PRO BASKETBALL; Suns Shake and Roll; Bulls Rattle |work=The New York Times |date=June 19, 1993 |last=Araton |first=Harvey |access-date=May 25, 2009 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=February 13, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110213104120/http://www.nytimes.com/1993/06/19/sports/pro-basketball-suns-shake-and-roll-bulls-rattle.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He averaged 26.6 points and 13.6 rebounds per game during the whole postseason,<ref name=cbcstats/> including 27.3 points, 13.0 rebounds and 5.5 assists per game in the championship series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/NBA_1993_finals.html|title=1993 NBA Finals Composite Box Score|work=basketball-reference.com|access-date=May 22, 2008|archive-date=June 6, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080606182528/http://www.basketball-reference.com/playoffs/NBA_1993_finals.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In the fourth game of the Finals, Barkley recorded a [[triple-double]], collecting 32 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199306160CHI.html|title=Game 4 Box Score|work=basketball-reference.com|access-date=May 22, 2008|archive-date=September 2, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902005950/https://www.basketball-reference.com/boxscores/199306160CHI.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
As a result of severe back pains, Barkley began to speculate that the [[1993–94 NBA season|1993–94 season]] would be his last in Phoenix.<ref name=nbaob/> Despite the back pain, he started the season by winning the [[1993 McDonald's Open]] in Germany and being named the tournaments MVP.<ref>{{cite news |author1=Ian Thomsen |title=All Hail 'Sir Charles' |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1993/10/25/sports/IHT-all-hail-sir-charles.html |access-date=1 May 2025 |work=[[The New York Times]] |agency=[[International Herald Tribune]] |date=25 October 1993 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104082723/https://www.nytimes.com/1993/10/25/sports/IHT-all-hail-sir-charles.html |archive-date=4 January 2023}}</ref> In the NBA, Barkley managed 21.6 points on .495 shooting and 11.2 rebounds per game.<ref name=nbah/> He was selected to his eighth consecutive All-Star Game, but did not play because of a torn right [[quadriceps tendon]],<ref name=nbaob/> and was named to the All-NBA Second Team. With Barkley fighting injuries, the Suns still managed a 56–26 record and made it to the Western Conference Semifinals. Despite holding a 2–0 lead in the series,<ref name="Suns 1993–94">{{cite web |work=databasebasketball.com |url=http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHO&yr=1993&lg=n |title=Phoenix Suns 1993–94 Game Log and Scores |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304051038/http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHO&yr=1993&lg=n |archive-date=March 4, 2016 |access-date=March 6, 2007}}</ref> the Suns lost in seven games to the eventual champions, the [[Houston Rockets]], who were led by [[Hakeem Olajuwon]].<ref name="Suns 1993–94"/> Despite his injuries, in Game 3 of a first-round playoff series against the [[Golden State Warriors]], Barkley hit 23 of 31 field-goal attempts and finished with 56 points, the then-third-highest total ever in a playoff game.<ref name="nbaob"/><ref name="cbcstats"/> After contemplating retirement in the off-season,<ref name="nbaob"/> Barkley returned for his [[1994–95 NBA season|eleventh season]] and continued to battle injuries.<ref name="nbabio"/> He struggled during the first half of the season,<ref name="nbaob"/> but gradually managed to improve, earning his ninth consecutive appearance in the All-Star Game. He averaged 23 points on .486 shooting and 11.1 rebounds per game,<ref name="nbah"/> while leading the Suns to a 59–23 record.<ref name="qs">{{cite web |work=databasebasketball.com |url=http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHO&yr=1994&lg=n |title=Suns 1994–95 Game Log and Scores |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304114952/http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHO&yr=1994&lg=n |archive-date=March 4, 2016 |access-date=March 11, 2007}}</ref> In [[1995 NBA playoffs|the playoffs]], despite having a 3–1 lead in the series,<ref name="qs"/> the Suns once again lost to the defending and eventual two-time champion [[Houston Rockets]] in seven games.<ref name="qs"/> Barkley averaged 25.7 points on .500 shooting and 13.4 rebounds per game in the postseason,<ref name="cbcstats"/> but was limited in Game 7 of the semi-finals by a leg injury.<ref name="nbaob"/>
The [[1995–96 NBA season|1995–96 season]] was Barkley's last with the Phoenix Suns. He led the team in scoring, rebounds and steals, averaging 23.3 points on .500 shooting, 11.6 rebounds and a career high .777 free throw shooting.<ref name="nbah"/> He earned his tenth appearance in an All-Star Game as the top vote-getter among Western Conference players and posted his 18th career triple-double on November 22.<ref name="cbcstats"/> He also became just the tenth player in NBA history to reach 20,000 points and 10,000 rebounds in their career.<ref name="nbaob"/><ref name="nbah"/> In the postseason, Barkley averaged 25.5 points and 13.5 rebounds per game in a four-game first round playoff loss to the [[San Antonio Spurs]].<ref name="cbcstats"/><ref>{{cite web |work=databasebasketball.com |url=http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHO&yr=1995&lg=n |title=Suns 1995–96 Game Log and Scores |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304054841/http://www.databasebasketball.com/teams/teamscores.htm?tm=PHO&yr=1995&lg=n |archive-date=March 4, 2016 |url-status=usurped |access-date=March 6, 2007}}</ref> After the Suns closed out the season with a 41–41 record and a first-round playoff loss, Barkley was traded to Houston in exchange for [[Sam Cassell]], [[Robert Horry]], [[Mark Bryant (basketball)|Mark Bryant]], and [[Chucky Brown]].<ref name="rm">{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1996/08/19/sports/barkley-confirms-his-trade-to-rockets.html|title=Barkley Confirms His Trade To Rockets|work=The New York Times|agency=Associated Press|date=August 19, 1996|access-date=March 31, 2008|url-access=subscription|archive-date=November 7, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107082334/https://www.nytimes.com/1996/08/19/sports/barkley-confirms-his-trade-to-rockets.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
During his career with the Suns, Barkley excelled, earning All-NBA and All-Star honors in each of his four seasons.<ref name="salon">{{cite web|last=Platt |first=Larry |url=http://archive.salon.com/people/bc/2000/05/30/barkley/print.html |title=Charles Barkley |work=Salon |date=May 30, 2000 |access-date=February 20, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090525060058/http://archive.salon.com/people/bc/2000/05/30/barkley/print.html |archive-date=May 25, 2009}}</ref>
====Role model controversy====
Throughout his career, Barkley argued that athletes should not be considered role models.<ref name="nbabio"/> He said, "A million guys can dunk a basketball in jail; should they be role models?"<ref>{{cite web|last=Wallace |first=Scott |title=Charles Barkley and Nike; "I Am Not A Role Model" 20 Years Later |url=http://www.sportsalmighty.com/i-am-not-a-role-model-20-years-later/ |website=Sports Almighty |access-date=February 16, 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140222030855/http://www.sportsalmighty.com/i-am-not-a-role-model-20-years-later/ |archive-date=February 22, 2014 }}</ref> In 1993, his argument prompted national news when he wrote the text for his "I am not a role model" Nike commercial. [[Dan Quayle]], the former Vice President of the United States, called it a "family-values message" for Barkley's oft-ignored call for parents and teachers to quit looking to him to "raise your kids" and instead be role models themselves.<ref name="salon"/>
Barkley's message sparked a great public debate about the nature of role models. He argued: <blockquote>I think the media demands that athletes be role models because there's some jealousy involved. It's as if they say, this is a young black kid playing a game for a living and making all this money, so we're going to make it tough on him. And what they're really doing is telling kids to look up to someone they can't become, because not many people can be like we are. Kids can't be like Michael Jordan.<ref name="salon"/></blockquote>
===Houston Rockets (1996–2000)===
The trade to the [[Houston Rockets]] in the [[1996–97 NBA season|1996–97 season]] was Barkley's last chance at capturing an NBA championship title. He joined a veteran team that included two of the [[50 Greatest Players in NBA History|NBA's 50 Greatest Players]], [[Hakeem Olajuwon]] and [[Clyde Drexler]]. To begin the season, Barkley was suspended for the season opener and fined $5,000 for fighting [[Charles Oakley]] during an October 25, 1996 preseason game. After Oakley committed a flagrant foul on Barkley, Barkley responded by shoving Oakley.<ref>{{cite news|first=Mike|last=Wise|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1996/10/29/sports/barkley-fight-costs-oakley-two-games-and-11000.html|title=Barkley Fight Costs Oakley Two Games and $11,000|work=The New York Times|date=October 29, 1996|access-date=March 31, 2008|url-access=subscription|archive-date=November 30, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101130122450/http://www.nytimes.com/1996/10/29/sports/barkley-fight-costs-oakley-two-games-and-11000.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In his first game with the Houston Rockets, Barkley had a career-high 33 rebounds.<ref>{{cite book |title=Numbelievable! |page=101 |first1=Michael X. |last1=Ferraro |first2=John |last2=Veneziano |name-list-style=amp |publisher=Triumph Books |___location=Chicago |year=2007 |isbn=978-1-57243-990-0}}</ref> He continued to battle injuries throughout the season and played only 53 games, missing 14 because of a [[laceration]] and bruise on his left pelvis, 11 because of a sprained right ankle, and four due to suspensions.<ref name="nbaob"/> He became the team's second-leading scorer, averaging 19.2 points on .484 shooting;<ref name="nbah"/> the first time since his rookie year that he averaged below 20 points per game. With Olajuwon taking most of the shots, Barkley focused primarily on rebounding, averaging 13.5 per game, the second-best in his career.<ref name="nbah"/> The Rockets ended the regular season with a 57–25 record and advanced to the Western Conference Finals, where they were defeated in six games by the [[Utah Jazz]].<ref name="nbaob"/> Barkley averaged 17.9 points and 12.0 rebounds per game in [[1997 NBA playoffs|another postseason]] loss.<ref>{{cite web |work=databasebasketball.com |url=http://www.databasebasketball.com/players/playerpage.htm?ilkid=BARKLCH01 |title=Barkley Stats |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304055057/http://www.databasebasketball.com/players/playerpage.htm?ilkid=BARKLCH01 |archive-date=March 4, 2016 |access-date=March 16, 2007}}</ref>
The [[1997–98 NBA season|1997–98 season]] was another injury-plagued year for Barkley. He averaged 15.2 points on .485 shooting and 11.7 rebounds per game.<ref name="nbah"/> The Rockets ended the season with a 41–41 record and were eliminated in five games by the [[Utah Jazz]] in the first round of [[1998 NBA playoffs|the playoffs]]. Limited by injuries, Barkley played four games in the series and averaged career lows of 9.0 points and 5.3 rebounds in 21.8 minutes per game.<ref name="cbcstats"/> During the [[1998–99 NBA season|lockout-shortened season]], Barkley played 42 regular-season games and managed 16.1 points on .478 shooting and 12.3 rebounds per game.<ref name="nbah"/> He became the second player in NBA history, following Wilt Chamberlain, to accumulate 23,000 points, 12,000 rebounds and 4,000 assists in his career.<ref name="nbaob"/> The Rockets concluded the shortened season with a 31–19 record and advanced to [[1999 NBA playoffs|the playoffs]].<ref>{{cite web |work=basketballreference.com |url=http://www.basketballreference.com/teams/teamyear.htm?tm=HOU&lg=n&yr=1998 |title=1998–99 Season: Houston Rockets |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923192542/http://www.basketballreference.com/teams/teamyear.htm?tm=HOU&lg=n&yr=1998 |archive-date=September 23, 2015 |url-status=dead |access-date=March 29, 2007}}</ref> In his last postseason appearance, Barkley averaged 23.5 points on .529 shooting and 13.8 rebounds per game in a first-round playoff loss to the [[Los Angeles Lakers]].<ref name="cbcstats"/> He concluded his postseason career averaging 23 points on .513 shooting, 12.9 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game in 123 games.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/b/barklch01.html|title=Barkley's NBA Career statistics|work=basketball-reference.com|access-date=May 22, 2008|archive-date=April 3, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130403213722/http://www.basketball-reference.com/players/b/barklch01.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
The [[1999–2000 NBA season|1999–2000 season]] was Barkley's final year in the NBA. Initially, Barkley averaged 14.5 points on .477 shooting and 10.5 rebounds per game.<ref name="nbah"/> Along with [[Shaquille O'Neal]], Barkley was ejected from a November 10, 1999 game against the [[Los Angeles Lakers]]. After O'Neal blocked a layup by Barkley, O'Neal shoved Barkley, who then threw the ball at O'Neal.<ref>{{cite news|title=Shaq, Barkley scuffle, are ejected|url=https://assets.espn.go.com/nba/news/1999/1110/163531.html|work=ESPN|agency=Associated Press|access-date=January 8, 2012|date=November 11, 1999|archive-date=February 2, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120202011853/http://assets.espn.go.com/nba/news/1999/1110/163531.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Barkley's season and career seemingly ended prematurely at the age of 36 after rupturing his left quadriceps tendon on December 8, 1999, in Philadelphia, where his career began.<ref>{{cite web |work=nba.com |url=http://www.nba.com/history/players/barkley_bio.html |title=Charles Barkley Bio |url-status=dead |access-date=May 17, 2007 |archive-date=March 24, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150324223228/http://www.nba.com/history/players/barkley_bio.html }}</ref> Refusing to allow his injury to be the last image of his career, Barkley returned after four months for one final game. On April 19, 2000, in a home game against the [[Vancouver Grizzlies]], Barkley scored a memorable basket on an offensive rebound and [[Putback#Putback and tip-in|putback]], a common trademark during his career. He accomplished what he set out to do after being activated from the injured list, and walked off the court to a standing ovation.<ref name="lg"/> He stated, "I can't explain what tonight meant. I did it for me. I've won and lost a lot of games, but the last memory I had was being carried off the court. I couldn't get over the mental block of being carried off the court. It was important psychologically to walk off the court on my own."<ref name="lg">{{cite magazine |magazine=Sports Illustrated |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/basketball/nba/recaps/2000/04/19/hou_van/ |url-status=dead |title=Barkley Retires |date=April 5, 2007 |access-date=April 6, 2007 |archive-date=June 14, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110614201248/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/basketball/nba/recaps/2000/04/19/hou_van/ }}</ref> After the basket, Barkley immediately retired and concluded his sixteen-year Hall of Fame career.<ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.espn.com/nba/news/2001/0330/1164817.html| title = ESPN.com - NBA - Barkley says Sixers not in his future| access-date = November 25, 2021| archive-date = November 25, 2021| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211125143909/https://www.espn.com/nba/news/2001/0330/1164817.html| url-status = live}}</ref>
==Olympics==
Barkley was invited by [[Bob Knight]] to try out for [[United States men's basketball team]] for the [[1984 Summer Olympics]]. He made it all the way to final cuts, but was not selected for the team, despite outplaying almost all of the front-court players there. According to Knight, Barkley was cut because of poor defense.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/1993/06/09/cut-from-84-olympic-team-barkley-rebounds-and-how/|title=CUT FROM '84 OLYMPIC TEAM, BARKLEY REBOUNDS-AND HOW|first=Don|last=Pierson|website=Chicago Tribune|date=June 9, 1993 |access-date=October 29, 2018|archive-date=April 1, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150401011027/http://articles.chicagotribune.com/1993-06-09/sports/9306090053_1_charles-barkley-defense-cut|url-status=live}}</ref>
Barkley competed in the [[1992 Summer Olympics|1992]] and [[1996 Summer Olympics|1996]] [[Basketball at the Summer Olympics|Olympic Games]] and won two [[gold medal]]s as a member of the [[United States men's national basketball team|United States men's basketball team]]. International rules that previously prevented NBA players from playing in the Olympics were changed in 1992, allowing Barkley and fellow NBA players to compete in the Olympics for the first time. The team was nicknamed the "[[1992 United States men's Olympic basketball team|Dream Team]]" and went 6–0 in the Olympic qualifying tournament and 8–0 against Olympic opponents. The team averaged an Olympic record 117.3 points a game and won games by an average of 43.8 points, only surpassed by the [[1956 United States men's Olympic basketball team|1956 U.S. Olympic team]].<ref name="olymp">usabasketball.com, [http://www.usabasketball.com/news.php?news_page=moly_1992 USA Basketball: Men's Olympics History (1992)] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081104072731/http://www.usabasketball.com/news.php?news_page=moly_1992 |date=November 4, 2008 }}. Retrieved May 16, 2009</ref> Barkley led the team with 18.0 points on 71.1% field goal shooting and set a then-Olympic single-game scoring record with 30 points in a 127–83 victory over Brazil.<ref name="olymp"/> He also set a U.S. Men's Olympic record for highest three-point field goal percentage with 87.5% and added 4.1 rebounds and 2.6 steals per game.<ref name="usarecords">usabasketball.com, [http://www.usabasketball.com/news.php?news_page=moly_records USA Basketball: USA Men's Olympic Records] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100103175925/http://usabasketball.com/news.php?news_page=moly_records |date=January 3, 2010 }}. Retrieved May 16, 2009</ref> During the game versus [[Angola men's national basketball team|Angola]], Barkley elbowed [[Herlander Coimbra]] in the chest and was unapologetic after the game, claiming he was hit first. Barkley was called for an intentional foul on the play. Coimbra's resulting free throw was the only point scored by Angola during a 46–1 run by the U.S.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Cook|first1=Byron|title=Barkley sarcastic after easy win|url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1350&dat=19920727&id=FQ8wAAAAIBAJ&sjid=TwMEAAAAIBAJ&pg=6788,7328159|newspaper=Toledo Blade|date=July 27, 1992|access-date=August 26, 2021|archive-date=August 26, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210826135545/https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1350&dat=19920727&id=FQ8wAAAAIBAJ&sjid=TwMEAAAAIBAJ&pg=6788,7328159|url-status=live}}</ref>
At the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympic Games, Barkley led the [[1996 United States men's Olympic basketball team|team]] in scoring, rebounds, and field goal percentage. He averaged 12.4 points on 81.6% field goal shooting, setting a U.S. Men's Olympic record.<ref name="usarecords"/> In addition, he also contributed 6.6 rebounds per game. Under Barkley's leadership, the team once again compiled a perfect 8–0 record and captured gold medal.<ref name="olympic2">usabasketball.com, [http://www.usabasketball.com/news.php?news_page=moly_1996 USA Basketball: Men's Olympic History (1996)] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081006084324/http://www.usabasketball.com/news.php?news_page=moly_1996 |date=October 6, 2008 }}. Retrieved May 16, 2009</ref>
==Player profile==
Barkley played the [[Power forward (basketball)|power forward]] position, but occasionally played [[small forward]] and [[Center (basketball)|center]]. He was known for his unusual build as a basketball player, stockier than most small forwards, yet shorter than most power forwards he faced. However, Barkley was still capable of outplaying both taller and quicker opponents because of his unusual combination of strength and agility.<ref name="nbaob"/>
Barkley was a prolific scorer who averaged 22.1 points per game during the regular season for his career and 23.0 points per game in the playoffs for his career. Barkley was an incredibly efficient offensive force, leading the NBA in 2-point field goal percentage every season from the 1986–87 season to the 1990–91 season. He led the league in effective field goal percentage in both the 1986–87 and 1987–88 seasons as well, and also led the league in offensive rating in both the 1988–89 and 1989–90 seasons.<ref name="cbcstats"/> He was one of the NBA's most versatile players and accurate scorers capable of scoring from anywhere on the court and established himself as one of the NBA's premier [[Clutch (sports)|clutch]] players.<ref name="nbaob"/> During his NBA career, Barkley was a constant mismatch because he possessed a very uncommon combination of skills and could play in a variety of positions. He would use all facets of his game in a single play; as a scorer, he had the ability to score from the perimeter and the post, using an array of spin moves and [[fadeaway]]s, or finishing a fast break with a powerful dunk. He was one of the most efficient scorers of all time, scoring at 54.13% total [[field goal percentage]] for his season career and 51.34% total field goal shooting for his playoff career (including a career-high season average of 60% during the [[1989–90 NBA season]]).<ref name="cbcstats"/>
Barkley is the shortest player in NBA history to lead the league in rebounding when he averaged a career-high 14.6 rebounds per game during the [[1986–87 NBA season|1986–87 season]].<ref name="hallpro">hoophall.com, [http://www.hoophall.com/halloffamers/bhof-charles-barkley.html Charles Barkley Hall of Fame Bio]. Retrieved March 6, 2007 {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070930220803/http://www.hoophall.com/halloffamers/bhof-charles-barkley.html |date=September 30, 2007 }}</ref> His tenacious and aggressive form of play built into an undersized frame that fluctuated between {{convert|284|lbs}} and {{convert|252|lbs}} helped cement his legacy as one of the greatest rebounders in NBA history, averaging 11.7 rebounds per game in the regular season for his career and 12.9 rebounds per game in his playoff career and totaling 12,546 rebounds for his season career.<ref name="cbcstats"/> Barkley topped the NBA in offensive rebounding for three straight years<ref name="nbabio"/> and was most famous among very few power forwards who could control a defensive rebound, dribble the length of the court and finish at the rim with a powerful dunk.<ref name="hallpro"/>
Barkley also possessed considerable defensive talents led by an aggressive demeanor, foot speed and his capacity to read the floor to anticipate for steals, a reason why he established his career as the second All-Time leader in steals for the power forward position<ref name="stealstat">{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/STL_career.html|title=Career Leaders for Steals|work=basketball-reference.com|access-date=March 28, 2007|archive-date=July 16, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100716122005/http://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/stl_career.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and leader of the highest all-time steal per game average for the power forward position.<ref name="stealstat"/> Despite being undersized for both the small forward and power forward positions, he also finished among the all-time leaders in blocked shots.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/BLK_career.html|title=Career Leaders for Blocks|work=basketball-reference.com|access-date=April 8, 2007|archive-date=May 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200526085329/https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/blk_career.html|url-status=live}}</ref> His speed and leaping ability made him one of the few power forwards capable of running down court to block a faster player with a [[chase-down block]].<ref name="hallpro"/>
In a ''[[SLAM (magazine)|SLAM]]'' magazine issue ranking NBA greats, Barkley was ranked among the top 20 players of All-Time. In the magazine, NBA Hall-of-Famer [[Bill Walton]] commented on Barkley's ability. Walton said, "Barkley is like [[Magic Johnson|Magic [Johnson]]] and [[Larry Bird|Larry [Bird]]] in that they don't really play a position. He plays everything; he plays basketball. There is nobody who does what Barkley does. He's a dominant rebounder, a dominant defensive player, a three-point shooter, a dribbler, a playmaker."<ref name="nbabio"/>
==Legacy==
[[File:Charles Barkley representing the 1992 Dream Team.jpg|thumb|right|Barkley at the 2010 NBA Hall of Fame induction]]
During his 16-year NBA career, Barkley was regarded as one of the most controversial, outspoken, and dominating players in the history of basketball. His impact on the sport went beyond his rebounding titles, assists, scoring and physical play.<ref name="chuck"/> His confrontational mannerisms often led to [[technical foul]]s and fines on the court, and his larger than life persona sometimes gave rise to national controversy off of it, such as when he was featured in ads that rejected pro athletes as [[role model]]s and declared, "I am not a role model."<ref name="classic">Bob Carter, [https://www.espn.com/classic/biography/s/Barkley_Charles.html Sir Charles led the NBA in dunks, interviews] . Retrieved April 15, 2007</ref> Although his words often led to controversy, according to Barkley his mouth was never the cause because it always spoke the truth.<ref name="chuck"/> He said, "I don't create controversies. They're there long before I open my mouth. I just bring them to your attention."<ref name="nbabio"/>
Besides his on-court fights with other players, he has exhibited confrontational behavior off-court. He was arrested for breaking a man's nose during a fight after a game with the [[Milwaukee Bucks]]<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/12/23/sports/basketball-barkley-arrested-after-fight.html|title=Barkley Arrested After Fight|work=The New York Times|date=December 23, 1991|access-date=April 15, 2007|archive-date=November 7, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107082337/https://www.nytimes.com/1991/12/23/sports/basketball-barkley-arrested-after-fight.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and also for throwing a man through a plate-glass window in [[Orlando, Florida|Orlando]], after being struck with a glass of ice.<ref>{{cite news|title=Barkley arrested after bar scuffle|url=http://chronicle.augusta.com/stories/1997/10/27/oth_216637.shtml|work=The Augusta Chronicle|agency=Associated Press|date=October 27, 1997|access-date=April 26, 2011|archive-date=September 19, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120919181651/http://chronicle.augusta.com/stories/1997/10/27/oth_216637.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Barkley continues to be popular with the fans and media.
As a player, Barkley was a perennial [[List of NBA All-Stars|All-Star]] who earned league [[NBA MVP|MVP honors]] in 1993.<ref name="nbabio"/> He employed a physical style of play that earned him the nicknames "Sir Charles" and "The Round Mound of Rebound".<ref>"Charles Barkley". The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. Columbia University</ref> He was named to the [[All-NBA]] team eleven times and earned two gold medals as a member of the United States Olympic Basketball team. He led both teams in scoring and was instrumental in helping the 1992 "[[United States men's national basketball team#1992 The Dream Team|Dream Team]]" and 1996 Men's Basketball team compile a perfect 16–0 record.<ref name="olymp"/><ref name="olympic2"/> He retired as one of only four players in NBA history to record at least 20,000 points, 10,000 rebounds and 4,000 assists in their career.<ref name="nbabio"/> As of 2023, he has the 12th highest PER in NBA history and is 14th in win shares.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/per_career.html|title=NBA & ABA Career Leaders and Records for Player Efficiency Rating - Basketball-Reference.com|website=Basketball-Reference.com|access-date=April 1, 2019|archive-date=May 18, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180518163420/https://www.basketball-reference.com/leaders/per_career.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
In 1996, Barkley, as part of the NBA's 50th Anniversary, was honored as one of the [[50 Greatest Players in NBA History|50 greatest players]] of all time by being named to the NBA's 50th Anniversary Team.<ref name="nba50">{{Cite web |url=https://www.nba.com/history/nba-at-50/top-50-players |title=NBA at 50: Top 50 Players |website=[[NBA.com]] |access-date=October 29, 2021 |archive-date=May 4, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190504232939/https://www.nba.com/history/nba-at-50/top-50-players |url-status=live }}</ref> In recognition of his collegiate and NBA achievements, Barkley's number 34 jersey was officially retired by Auburn University on March 3, 2001. In the same month, the [[Philadelphia 76ers]] also officially retired Barkley's number 34 jersey.<ref name="renumber">{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/sixers/history/retired_index.html|title=Sixers History retired numbers|publisher=National Basketball Association|access-date=May 2, 2007|archive-date=October 3, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121003052749/http://www.nba.com/sixers/history/retired_index.html|url-status=live}}</ref> On March 20, 2004, the Phoenix Suns honored Barkley as well by including him in the "[[Phoenix Suns Ring of Honor|Suns Ring of Honor]]".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nba.com/suns/history/00826007.html|title=Phoenix Suns Legends: Ring of Honor|publisher=National Basketball Association|access-date=July 10, 2007|archive-date=April 22, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120422023759/http://www.nba.com/suns/history/00826007.html|url-status=live}}</ref> In recognition of his achievements as a player, Barkley was inducted into the [[Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame]] in 2006.<ref name=nhoh/> In October 2021, as part of the NBA's 75th Anniversary, Barkley was honored as one of the [[NBA 75th Anniversary Team|75 greatest players]] of all time by being named to the NBA's 75th Anniversary Team.<ref name="nba75">{{Cite web|url=https://www.nba.com/news/nba-75th-anniversary-team-announced|title=NBA 75th Anniversary Team announced|website=[[NBA.com]]|access-date=October 29, 2021|archive-date=October 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211025195243/https://www.nba.com/news/nba-75th-anniversary-team-announced|url-status=live}}</ref> To commemorate the NBA's 75th Anniversary ''[[The Athletic]]'' ranked their top 75 players of all time, and named Barkley as the 22nd greatest player in NBA history.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/3068362/2022/01/20/nba-75-at-no-22-charles-barkley-was-an-undersized-power-forward-but-his-rebounding-and-physicality-made-him-one-of-the-best-ever/|title=NBA 75: At No. 22, Charles Barkley's rebounding and physicality made him one of the best ever|first=Anthony|last=Slater|website=The Athletic|date=September 26, 2022 |access-date=March 10, 2023|archive-date=March 10, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230310235335/https://theathletic.com/3068362/2022/01/20/nba-75-at-no-22-charles-barkley-was-an-undersized-power-forward-but-his-rebounding-and-physicality-made-him-one-of-the-best-ever/|url-status=live}}</ref>
==NBA career statistics==
{{NBA player statistics legend|leader=y}}
===Regular season===
{{NBA player statistics start}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1984–85 NBA season|1984–85]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1984–85 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| '''82''' || 60 || 28.6 || .545 || .167 || .733 || 8.6 || 1.9 || 1.2 || 1.0 || 14.0
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|{{nowrap|[[1985–86 NBA season|1985–86]]}}
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1985–86 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 80 || 80 || 36.9 || .572 || .227 || .685 || 12.8 || 3.9 || '''2.2''' || '''1.6''' || 20.0
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1986–87 NBA season|1986–87]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1986–87 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 68 || 62 || '''40.3''' || .594 || .202 || .761 || style="background:#cfecec;"|'''14.6'''* || 4.9 || 1.8 || 1.5 ||23.0
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1987–88 NBA season|1987–88]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1987–88 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 80 || 80 || 39.6 || .587 || .280 || .751 || 11.9 || 3.2 || 1.3 || 1.3 || '''28.3'''
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1988–89 NBA season|1988–89]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1988–89 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 79 || 79 || 39.1 || .579 || .216 || .753 || 12.5 || 4.1 || 1.6 || .9 || 25.8
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1989–90 NBA season|1989–90]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1989–90 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 79 || 79 || 39.1 || '''.600''' || .217 || .749 || 11.5 || 3.9 || 1.9 || .6 || 25.2
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1990–91 NBA season|1990–91]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1990–91 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 67 || 67 || 37.3 || .570 || .284 || .722 || 10.1 || 4.2 || 1.6 || .5 || 27.6
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1991–92 NBA season|1991–92]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1991–92 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 75 || 75 || 38.4 || .552 || .234 || .695 || 11.1 || 4.1 || 1.8 || .6 || 23.1
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1992–93 NBA season|1992–93]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1992–93 Phoenix Suns season|Phoenix]]
| 76 || 76 || 37.6 || .520 || .305 || .765 || 12.2 || '''5.1''' || 1.6 || 1.0 || 25.6
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1993–94 NBA season|1993–94]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1993–94 Phoenix Suns season|Phoenix]]
| 65 || 65 || 35.4 || .495 || .270 || .704 || 11.2 || 4.6 || 1.6 || .6 || 21.6
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1994–95 NBA season|1994–95]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1994–95 Phoenix Suns season|Phoenix]]
| 68 || 68 || 35.0 || .486 || '''.338''' || .748 || 11.1 || 4.1 || 1.6 || .7 || 23.0
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1995–96 NBA season|1995–96]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1995–96 Phoenix Suns season|Phoenix]]
| 71 || 71 || 37.1 || .500 || .280 || '''.777''' || 11.6 || 3.7 || 1.6 || .8 || 23.2
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1996–97 NBA season|1996–97]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1996–97 Houston Rockets season|Houston]]
| 53 || 53 || 37.9 || .484 || .283 || .694 || 13.5 || 4.7 || 1.3 || .5 || 19.2
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1997–98 NBA season|1997–98]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1997–98 Houston Rockets season|Houston]]
| 68 || 41 || 33.0 || .485 || .214 || .746 || 11.7 || 3.2 || 1.0 || .4 || 15.2
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1998–99 NBA season|1998–99]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1998–99 Houston Rockets season|Houston]]
| 42 || 40 || 36.3 || .478 || .160 || .719 || 12.3 || 4.6 || 1.0 || .3 || 16.1
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1999–2000 NBA season|1999–00]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1999–2000 Houston Rockets season|Houston]]
| 20 || 18 || 31.0 || .477 || .231 || .645 || 10.5 || 3.2 || .7 || .2 || 14.5
|- class="sortbottom"
| style="text-align:center;" colspan="2"|Career
| 1,073 || 1,012 || 36.7 || .541 || .266 || .735 || 11.7 || 3.9 || 1.5 || .8 || 22.1
|- class="sortbottom"
| style="text-align:center;" colspan="2"|All-Star
| 11 || 7 || 23.2 || .495 || .250 || .625 || 6.7 || 1.8 || 1.3 || .4 || 12.6
{{s-end}}
===Playoffs===
{{NBA player statistics start}}
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1985 NBA playoffs|1985]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1984–85 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 13 || 2 || 31.4 || .540 || '''.667''' || .733 || 11.1 || 2.0 || 1.8 || 1.2 || 14.9
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1986 NBA playoffs|1986]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1985–86 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 12 || 12 || 41.4 || .578 || .067 || .695 || '''15.8'''|| 5.6 || 2.3 || 1.3 || 25.0
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1987 NBA playoffs|1987]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1986–87 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 5 || 5 || 42.0 || .573 || .125 || '''.800'''|| 12.6 || 2.4 || .8 || '''1.6''' || 24.6
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1989 NBA playoffs|1989]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1988–89 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 3 || 3|| '''45.0''' || '''.644''' || .200 || .710 || 11.7 || 5.3 || 1.7 || .7 || 27.0
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1990 NBA playoffs|1990]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1989–90 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 10 || 10 || 41.9 || .543 || .333 || .602 || 15.5 || 4.3 || .8 || .7 || 24.7
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1991 NBA playoffs|1991]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1990–91 Philadelphia 76ers season|Philadelphia]]
| 8 || 8 || 40.8 || .592 || .100 || .653 || 10.5 || '''6.0'''|| 1.9|| .4 || 24.9
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1993 NBA playoffs|1993]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1992–93 Phoenix Suns season|Phoenix]]
| '''24''' || '''24'''|| 42.8 || .477 || .222 || .771 || 13.6 || 4.3 || 1.6 || 1.0 || 26.6
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1994 NBA playoffs|1994]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1993–94 Phoenix Suns season|Phoenix]]
| 10 || 10 || 42.5 || .509 || .350 || .764 || 13.0 || 4.8 || '''2.5''' || .9|| '''27.6'''
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1995 NBA playoffs|1995]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1994–95 Phoenix Suns season|Phoenix]]
| 10 || 10 || 39.0 || .500 || .257 || .733 || 13.4 || 3.2 || 1.3 || 1.1 || 25.7
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1996 NBA playoffs|1996]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1995–96 Phoenix Suns season|Phoenix]]
| 4 || 4 || 41.0 || .443 || .250 || .787 || 13.5 || 3.8 || 1.0 || 1.0 || 25.5
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1997 NBA playoffs|1997]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1996–97 Houston Rockets season|Houston]]
| 16 || 16 || 37.8 || .434 || .289 || .769 || 12.0 || 3.4 || 1.2 || .4 || 17.9
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1998 NBA playoffs|1998]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1997–98 Houston Rockets season|Houston]]
| 4 || 0 || 21.8 || .522 || .000 || .571 || 5.3 || 1.0 || 1.3 || .0 || 9.0
|-
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1999 NBA playoffs|1999]]
| style="text-align:left;"|[[1998–99 Houston Rockets season|Houston]]
| 4 || 4 || 39.3 || .529 || .286 || .667 || 13.8 || 3.8 || 1.5 || .5 || 23.5
|- class="sortbottom"
| style="text-align:center;" colspan="2"|Career
| 123 || 108 || 39.4 || .513 || .255 || .717 || 12.9 || 3.9 || 1.6 || .9 || 23.0
{{s-end}}
==NBA records==
===Regular season===
'''Most offensive rebounds in a half''': 13, Philadelphia 76ers vs. New York Knicks, March 4, 1987
'''Most offensive rebounds in a quarter''': 11, Philadelphia 76ers vs. New York Knicks, {{Dts|1987|March|4|format=mdy}}
*Tied with [[Larry Smith (basketball, born 1958)|Larry Smith]] (Golden State Warriors vs. Denver Nuggets, {{Dts|1986|March|23|format=mdy}})
'''Shortest player to lead the league in rebounds''': at 6’6"
===Playoffs===
'''Most free throws made in a half''': 19, Phoenix Suns vs. Seattle SuperSonics, {{Dts|1993|6|5}}
'''Most free throw attempts in a 7-game series''': 100, Philadelphia 76ers vs. Milwaukee Bucks, 1986 Eastern Conference Semi-finals
'''Most turnovers in a 7-game series''': 37, Philadelphia 76ers vs. Milwaukee Bucks, 1986 Eastern Conference Semi-finals
==Television==
=== Sports analyst ===
[[File:Inside the NBA on TNT.jpg|thumb|260px|Barkley on ''[[Inside the NBA]]'' on ___location at [[San Francisco]]'s [[Pier 43 Ferry Arch|Pier 43]] for the [[2015–16 NBA season|NBA season]] opening day in late October 2015.]]
Since 2000, Barkley has served as a studio analyst for [[TNT (American TV network)|Turner Network Television]] (TNT).<ref name="nbabio"/><ref name="announcer">{{cite web |work=tnt.tv |url=http://www.tnt.tv/title/?oid=623948-3829 |title=Charles Barkley: Announcer |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070814001756/http://www.tnt.tv/title/?oid=623948-3829 |archive-date=August 14, 2007 |access-date=November 11, 2007}}</ref> He appears on the network's NBA coverage during pre-game and halftime shows, in addition to special NBA events. He also occasionally works as an onsite game analyst.<ref name=nov12>{{cite magazine |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/writers/richard_deitsch/11/04/november-charles-barkley/index.html?eref=sihp&sct=hp_wr_a1 |title=Charles Barkley's uncertain broadcasting future; media notes |first=Richard |last=Deitsch |magazine=Sports Illustrated |access-date=March 13, 2013 |archive-date=January 5, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160105022643/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/writers/richard_deitsch/11/04/november-charles-barkley/index.html?eref=sihp&sct=hp_wr_a1 |url-status=dead }}</ref> He is part of the crew on ''[[Inside the NBA]]'', a post-game show during which Barkley, [[Ernie Johnson Jr.]], [[Kenny Smith]] and [[Shaquille O'Neal]] recap and comment on NBA games that have occurred during the day and also on general NBA affairs.<ref name="announcer"/> Barkley has won five [[Sports Emmy Awards]] for "[[Outstanding Sports Personality, Studio and Sports Event Analyst|Outstanding Studio Analyst]]" for his work on TNT.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Khachatryan |first1=Kevin |title=Future of 'Inside the NBA' on TNT: Charles Barkley Speaks Out Amid Broadcasting Rights Uncertainty |url=https://resident.com/sports-and-entertainment/2024/05/25/future-of-inside-the-nba-on-tnt-charles-barkley-speaks-out-amid-broadcasting-rights-uncertainty |website=Resident.com |access-date=July 8, 2024}}</ref>
During the broadcast of a game, in which Barkley was courtside with [[Marv Albert]], Barkley poked fun at NBA official [[Dick Bavetta]]'s age. Albert replied to Barkley, "I believe Dick would beat you in a footrace." In response to that remark, Barkley went on to challenge Bavetta to a race at the [[2007 NBA All-Star Weekend]] for $5,000. The winner was to choose a charity to which the money would be donated. The NBA agreed to pitch in an additional $50,000, and TNT threw in $25,000. The pair raced for three and a half lengths of the basketball court until Barkley ultimately won. After the event, the two kissed<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/13631053/dick-bavetta-funniest-nba-referee-moments |title=That time Dick Bavetta bet Tim Duncan a burger (and other stories from the NBA's longest tenured ref) |work=ESPN |last=Woods |first=Shemar |date=September 11, 2015 |access-date=June 23, 2021 |archive-date=November 8, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108133839/https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/13631053/dick-bavetta-funniest-nba-referee-moments |url-status=live }}</ref> in a show of good sportsmanship.<ref name="Bavetta">{{cite web|first=Darren|last=Misener|url=http://www.nba.com/allstar2007/news/bavettabarkley_taletape.html|title=Bavetta vs. Barkley: Sir Charles Reigns|publisher=National Basketball Association|date=February 19, 2007|access-date=March 6, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070308001408/http://www.nba.com/allstar2007/news/bavettabarkley_taletape.html|archive-date=March 8, 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Barkley was also known for being the first-ever celebrity guest picker for [[College GameDay (football)|College GameDay]], in 2004.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Moriarty |first=Morgan |date=2018-10-27 |title='GameDay' guest pickers, sorted by how much they make sense |url=https://www.sbnation.com/college-football/2018/10/27/17987166/college-gameday-celebrity-guest-pickers |access-date=2024-06-17 |website=SBNation.com |language=en}}</ref>
Since 2011, Barkley has served as a studio analyst for the joint coverage of the [[NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament]] between [[Turner Sports]] and [[CBS]]. Barkley has broadcast every Final Four since 2011.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fringe |first=Caleb |date=2024-06-15 |title=NBA Legend Charles Barkley to Retire from TV Following 2024-25 Season |url=https://thereportonsports.com/nba-legend-charles-barkley-to-retire-from-tv-following-2024-25-season/ |access-date=2024-06-17 |website=TheReportOnSports.com |language=en-US}}</ref>
He also served as a guest commentator for [[NBC]]'s coverage of the NFL Wild Card playoffs on January 7, 2012; the same night he hosted ''[[Saturday Night Live]]'', which is taped next door to the ''[[Football Night in America]]'' studio in [[Manhattan]]'s [[GE Building]].<ref name="nbc">{{cite web|first=Aly|last=Semigran|url=http://popwatch.ew.com/2012/01/08/saturday-night-live-recap-charles-barkley/|title='Saturday Night Live' recap: Charles Barkley's third hosting gig was a missed shot|work=PopWatch|date=January 8, 2012|access-date=January 8, 2012|archive-date=January 9, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120109104005/http://popwatch.ew.com/2012/01/08/saturday-night-live-recap-charles-barkley/|url-status=live}}</ref>
Barkley announced in November 2012 that he was contemplating retirement from broadcasting. "[N]ow I'm like, 'Dude, you have been doing this for 13 years and if I make it to the end of the contract, it will be 17 years.' Seventeen years is a long time. It's a lifetime in broadcasting. I personally have to figure out the next challenge for me", he said.<ref name=nov12/> After repeating that he planned to retire in 2016, he signed another contract with Turner Sports.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Why Charles Barkley re-signed with Inside the NBA; more Media Circus |url=https://www.si.com/more-sports/2015/05/17/charles-barkley-renews-contract-si-media-podcast-verne-lundquist |magazine=Sports Illustrated |access-date=April 1, 2019 |archive-date=April 1, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401192136/https://www.si.com/more-sports/2015/05/17/charles-barkley-renews-contract-si-media-podcast-verne-lundquist |url-status=live }}</ref> He later stated that he wanted to retire when he turned 60 in 2023.<ref>{{cite web |title=Charles Barkley on when he'll retire: 'I am looking at 60 as the end' |url=https://ftw.usatoday.com/2018/03/charles-barkley-retirement-nba-on-tnt-inside-the-nba |website=For The Win |access-date=April 1, 2019 |date=March 23, 2018 |archive-date=April 1, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401181708/https://ftw.usatoday.com/2018/03/charles-barkley-retirement-nba-on-tnt-inside-the-nba |url-status=live }}</ref>
In October 2022, Barkley signed a 10-year contract extension with [[Warner Bros. Discovery Sports]], owner of TNT, to remain as an analyst on ''Inside the NBA''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-10-17 |title=Barkley, 'Inside the NBA' crew agree to contract extensions |url=https://apnews.com/article/nba-nfl-nhl-entertainment-sports-89aa6721eb6666d9d760c6147b7da161 |access-date=2022-10-19 |website=AP NEWS |language=en |archive-date=October 19, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221019192902/https://apnews.com/article/nba-nfl-nhl-entertainment-sports-89aa6721eb6666d9d760c6147b7da161 |url-status=live }}</ref>
In June 2024, Barkley also was a guest of Game 2 of the [[2024 Stanley Cup Finals]] as a Studio analyst broadcast by ABC, and produced by ESPN.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-06-11 |title=Fans loved Charles Barkley talking hockey during surprise Stanley Cup broadcast appearance |url=https://ftw.usatoday.com/2024/06/charles-barkley-surprsie-stanley-cup-broadcast-appearance-nhl-fan-reactions |access-date=2024-06-15 |website=For The Win |language=en-US}}</ref>
In June 2024, Barkley announced his intention to retire from television following the conclusion of the [[2024–25 NBA season]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Baer |first1=Jack |title=Charles Barkley announces he will retire from broadcasting after 2024-25 season |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/charles-barkley-announces-he-will-retire-from-broadcasting-after-2024-25-season-040143769.html |website=Yahoo Sports |access-date=June 14, 2024}}</ref> He later reversed this decision in August, deciding to stay with TNT Sports on his ten-year, $210 million contract.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Marchand |first=Andrew |date=2024-08-06 |title=Charles Barkley not retiring, staying with TNT Sports long term |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5684382/2024/08/06/charles-barkley-not-retiring-tnt/ |access-date=2024-08-06 |work=[[The Athletic]] |publisher=[[The New York Times]] |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Wells |first=Adam |date=2024-08-06 |title=Charles Barkley Reaffirms Exclusive Long-Term Commitment to TNT Sports |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10130945-charles-barkley-reaffirms-exclusive-long-term-commitment-to-tnt-sports |access-date=2024-08-06 |website=[[Bleacher Report]] |language=en}}</ref>
=== Other television work ===
From 2002 to 2003, Barkley hosted a sports and general topics talk show with guests on TNT called ''Listen Up! Charles Barkley with Ernie Johnson''.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Issues/2002/09/26/Sports-Media/Listen-Up-TNT-To-Debut-New-Talk-Show-With-Charles-Barkley.aspx | title=Listen up: TNT to Debut New Talk Show with Charles Barkley | date=September 26, 2002 | access-date=April 23, 2023 | archive-date=April 23, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230423210100/https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Daily/Issues/2002/09/26/Sports-Media/Listen-Up-TNT-To-Debut-New-Talk-Show-With-Charles-Barkley.aspx | url-status=live }}</ref> In July 2016, it was announced that Barkley would host a six-episode unscripted show called ''The Race Card''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://tvline.com/2016/07/31/the-race-card-charles-barkley-tnt-talk-show/ |title=Charles Barkley disrupts status quo |last=Ausiello |first=Michael |date=July 31, 2016 |website=[[TVLine]] |access-date=August 1, 2016 |archive-date=August 2, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160802161440/http://tvline.com/2016/07/31/the-race-card-charles-barkley-tnt-talk-show/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The show was renamed to ''American Race'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/tv/la-et-st-charles-barkley-american-race-20170504-story.html|title=Charles Barkley gives the 'American Race' some real traction|first=Lorraine|last=Ali|website=Los Angeles Times|date=May 4, 2017|access-date=October 29, 2018|archive-date=November 5, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181105204915/http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/tv/la-et-st-charles-barkley-american-race-20170504-story.html|url-status=live}}</ref> and premiered on TNT on May 11, 2017.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.sacbee.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/ailene-voisin/article149620229.html|title=Charles Barkley's TNT series hits home on race, religion and sexuality|first=Ailene|last=Voisin|date=May 9, 2017|access-date=October 29, 2018|newspaper=[[Sacramento Bee]]|archive-date=October 12, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181012060723/https://www.sacbee.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/ailene-voisin/article149620229.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
In the fall of 2023, Barkley would begin co-hosting a news discussion program called ''[[King Charles (news program)|King Charles]]'' alongside [[Gayle King]] on [[CNN]].<ref>{{cite web |last1=Goodkind |first1=Nicole |title=Gayle King and Charles Barkley to host new prime-time show on CNN, company announces |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/22/media/cnn-king-charles-announcement/index.html |website=CNN |access-date=April 23, 2023 |date=April 22, 2023 |archive-date=April 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230423020419/https://www.cnn.com/2023/04/22/media/cnn-king-charles-announcement/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref> It was a [[limited-run series]] that aired on Wednesdays at 10pm.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Steinberg |first=Brian |date=2023-11-20 |title=CNN Taps 'King Charles' in New Bid for Primetime Crown |url=https://variety.com/2023/tv/news/cnn-king-charles-launch-gayle-king-charles-barkley-1235801303/ |access-date=2024-05-01 |website=[[Variety (magazine)|Variety]] |language=en-US}}</ref> ''King Charles'' ended in April the following year.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Johnson |first=Ted |date=2024-04-15 |title=CNN's 'King Charles' Ends Its Run With No Plans To Extend Limited Series |url=https://deadline.com/2024/04/king-charles-cnn-gayle-king-charles-barkley-1235886271/ |access-date=2024-05-01 |website=[[Deadline Hollywood|Deadline]] |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Weprin |first=Alex |date=2024-04-15 |title=CNN Ends Gayle King-Charles Barkley Show After Limited Run |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/cnn-king-charles-ends-limited-series-1235874249/ |access-date=2024-05-01 |website=[[The Hollywood Reporter]] |language=en-US}}</ref>
==Personal life==
A [[DNA test]] read by [[George Lopez]] on ''[[Lopez Tonight]]'' revealed Barkley's ancestry to be of 14% Native American, 11% European, and 75% African descent.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yf9befFNy6g|title=Lopez Tonight – DNA Test [December 13, 2010]|last=((LatinasEn4))|date=January 14, 2010|access-date=October 29, 2018|via=YouTube|archive-date=April 13, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190413225852/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yf9befFNy6g|url-status=live}}</ref>
===Marriage and family===
Barkley and Maureen Blumhardt reportedly first met in the mid to late 1980s when Barkley was playing for the Philadelphia 76ers. They got married in 1989. Barkley and Maureen reside in [[Scottsdale, Arizona]]. His wife is an honorary member of the Phoenix-based Fresh Start Women's Foundation organization.<ref>{{cite web |title=Who Is Charles Barkley's Wife? All About Maureen Blumhardt |url=https://people.com/who-is-maureen-blumhardt-charles-barkley-wife-7964125 |website=Peoplemag |access-date=13 June 2024 |language=en}}</ref>
Their daughter Christiana was born in 1989. Barkley said she was named after a mall called [[Christiana Mall]] in [[Delaware]]. She is married and has two children.<ref>{{cite web |title=All About Charles Barkley's Daughter Christiana Barkley |url=https://people.com/all-about-charles-barkley-daughter-christiana-7502744 |website=Peoplemag |access-date=13 June 2024 |language=en}}</ref>
===Gambling===
Barkley is known for his [[compulsive gambler|compulsive gambling]]. In a 2007 interview with [[ESPN]]'s [[Trey Wingo]], Barkley revealed that he had lost approximately $10 million through gambling.<ref name="gamb"/> In addition, he also admitted to losing $2.5 million "in a six-hour period" while playing [[blackjack]].<ref name="gamb"/> Although Barkley openly admits to his problem, he claims it is not serious since he can afford to support the habit.<ref name="gamb"/> When approached by fellow [[Turner Sports|TNT]] broadcaster [[Ernie Johnson Jr.|Ernie Johnson]] about the issue, Barkley replied, "It's not a problem. If you're a drug addict or an alcoholic, those are problems. I gamble for too much money. As long as I can continue to do it I don't think it's a problem. Do I think it's a bad habit? Yes, I think it's a bad habit. Am I going to continue to do it? Yes, I'm going to continue to do it."<ref name="gambling">{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=2432043 |title=Barkley claims gambling problem has cost him $10M |date=May 3, 2006 |website=ESPN |agency=Associated Press |access-date=July 22, 2007 |archive-date=August 7, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070807105105/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2432043 |url-status=live }}</ref>
Despite suffering big losses, Barkley also claims to have won on several occasions. During a trip to [[Las Vegas Strip|Las Vegas]], he claims to have won $700,000 from playing blackjack and betting on the [[Indianapolis Colts]] to defeat the [[Chicago Bears]] in [[Super Bowl XLI]].<ref name="gamb">{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=2755468 |title=Barkley admits huge losses, big gains while gambling |agency=Associated Press |date=February 5, 2007 |work=ESPN |access-date=March 6, 2007 |archive-date=February 8, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070208015331/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2755468 |url-status=live }}</ref> He went on to state, however, "No matter how much I win, it ain't a lot. It's only a lot when I lose. And you always lose. I think it's fun, I think it's exciting. I'm gonna continue to do it, but I have to get to a point where I don't try to break the casino 'cause you never can."<ref name="gambling"/>
In May 2008, the [[Wynn Las Vegas]] casino filed a civil complaint against Barkley, alleging that he failed to pay a $400,000 debt stemming from October 2007. Barkley responded by taking blame for letting time lapse on the repayment of the debt and promptly paid the casino.<ref name="gambwynn">{{cite web |first=Ken |last=Ritter |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/topstories/2008-05-15-1363912210_x.htm |title=Barkley says he'll pay huge gambling debt |work=USA Today |date=May 15, 2008 |access-date=May 16, 2009 |archive-date=July 18, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090718190600/http://www.usatoday.com/sports/topstories/2008-05-15-1363912210_x.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> After repaying his debt, Barkley stated during a pregame show on TNT, "I've got to stop gambling... I am not going to gamble anymore. For right now, the next year or two, I'm not going to gamble... Just because I can afford to lose money doesn't mean I should do it."<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/2008-05-19-barkley_N.htm |title=Barkley: 'I've got to stop gambling' |work=USA Today |agency=Associated Press |access-date=August 9, 2008 |archive-date=November 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107082337/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/2008-05-19-barkley_N.htm |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Golf===
Barkley began playing [[golf]] during his NBA career, later staying with the sport as it was a way to remain in competition after his basketball career ended. He is a regular competitor at the [[American Century Championship]] [[pro-am]] tournament, regularly finishing near the bottom of the leaderboard. He is widely regarded as a poor golfer with a particularly bad swing; he later underwent training to improve his swing, which led to an improved performance in the 2021 American Century Championship.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.golfdigest.com/story/charles-barkley-big-losing-bet-lexi-thompson-bold-business-venture-all-time-celebrity-golf-choke-the-grind |title=Charles Barkley's big (losing) bet on himself, Lexi Thompson's bold business venture and an all-time celebrity golf choke |work=Golf Digest |last=Meyers |first=Alex |date=July 13, 2021 |access-date=January 21, 2022 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210713205141/https://www.golfdigest.com/story/charles-barkley-big-losing-bet-lexi-thompson-bold-business-venture-all-time-celebrity-golf-choke-the-grind |archive-date=July 13, 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.pgatour.com/champions/tour-insider/2021/06/16/charles-barkley-former-nba-star-now-pga-tour-champions-fan.html |title=Charles Barkley, former NBA star now PGA TOUR Champions fan |work=pgatour.com |last=McClellan |first=Bob |date=June 16, 2021 |access-date=January 21, 2022 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210616211349/https://www.pgatour.com/champions/tour-insider/2021/06/16/charles-barkley-former-nba-star-now-pga-tour-champions-fan.html |archive-date=June 16, 2021 }}</ref>
Barkley participated in ''Champions for Change'', the third iteration of ''[[The Match (golf)|The Match]]''. As part of a team with [[Phil Mickelson]], Barkley pulled off a major [[upset (sports)|upset]] defeating [[Peyton Manning]] and [[Stephen Curry]] by a score of 4–3.<ref>{{Cite news |title=The Match 3 results, highlights: Mickelson and Barkley easily defeat Curry and Manning in shocking upset |url=https://www.cbssports.com/golf/news/the-match-3-results-highlights-phil-mickelson-charles-barkley-easily-defeat-stephen-curry-peyton-manning/live/ |access-date=2020-11-28 |work=CBS Sports |first=Kyle |last=Porter |date=November 27, 2020 |archive-date=October 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211019051734/https://www.cbssports.com/golf/news/the-match-3-results-highlights-phil-mickelson-charles-barkley-easily-defeat-stephen-curry-peyton-manning/live/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Politics===
[[File:Obama with Charles Barkley after interview.jpeg|thumb|Barkley with President [[Barack Obama]] at the [[White House]]]]
Barkley spoke for many years of his [[Republican Party (United States)|Republican Party]] affiliation. In 1995, he considered running as a Republican candidate for [[Alabama]]'s governorship in the [[Alabama gubernatorial election, 1998|1998 election]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/14051432/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070222100105/http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/14051432/ |archive-date=February 22, 2007 |title=Barkley renews talk of running for Ala. governor |agency=Associated Press |work=MSNBC |date=July 27, 2006 |access-date=January 12, 2007}}</ref> However, in 2006, he altered his political stance, stating "I was a Republican until they lost their minds."<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/blogs/national-affairs/charles-barkley-i-was-a-republican-until-they-lost-their-minds-20060720 |title=Charles Barkley: "I Was a Republican Until They Lost Their Minds |magazine=Rolling Stone |access-date=July 7, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-date=July 6, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120706035259/http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/blogs/national-affairs/charles-barkley-i-was-a-republican-until-they-lost-their-minds-20060720 }}</ref> At a July 2006 meeting of the Southern Regional Conference of the National School Boards Association in [[Destin, Florida]], Barkley lent credence to the idea of running for [[Governor of Alabama]], stating: <blockquote>I'm serious. I've got to get people to realize that the government is full of it. Republicans and Democrats want to argue over stuff that's not important, like gay marriage or the war in Iraq or illegal immigration... When I run—if I run—we're going to talk about real issues like improving our schools, cleaning up our neighborhoods of drugs and crime and making Alabama a better place for all people.<ref>{{cite web |last=Lisovicz |first=Edan |url=http://media.www.maroon-news.com/media/storage/paper742/news/2009/01/22/Sports/Busted.Barkley.Sir.Charless.Dui-3593384.shtml?refsource=collegeheadlines |title=Busted Barkley: Sir Charles's DUI |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110714041453/http://www.maroon-news.com/2.5268/busted-barkley-sir-charles-s-dui-1.801858 |archive-date=July 14, 2011 |work=Colgate Maroon-News |access-date=May 20, 2009}}</ref></blockquote>
In September 2006, Barkley once again reiterated his desire to run for governor. He noted, "I can't run until 2014 ... I have to live there for seven years, so I'm looking for a house there as we speak."<ref name="Gov">{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=2576203 |title=Barkley serious about running for Alabama governor |agency=Associated Press |date=September 6, 2006 |work=ESPN |access-date=January 12, 2007 |archive-date=November 8, 2006 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061108044304/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=2576203 |url-status=live }}</ref> In July 2007, he made a video declaring his support for [[Barack Obama]] in the 2008 presidential election.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.motherjones.com/mojoblog/archives/2007/07/4852_more_charles_ba.html |title=More Charles Barkley Blogging |work=Mother Jones |last=Stein |first=Johnathon |date=July 12, 2007 |access-date=March 26, 2008 |archive-date=March 6, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080306101525/http://www.motherjones.com/mojoblog/archives/2007/07/4852_more_charles_ba.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In September 2007, during a broadcast on [[Monday Night Football]], Barkley announced that he bought a house in Alabama to satisfy residency requirements for a 2014 campaign for governor. In addition, Barkley declared himself an [[Independent politician|Independent]] and not a [[Democratic Party (United States)|Democrat]] as previously reported. "The Republicans are full of it", Barkley said, "The Democrats are a little less full of it."<ref name="Gov"/>
In February 2008, Barkley announced that he would be running for Governor of Alabama in 2014 as an Independent. On October 27, 2008, he officially announced his candidacy for Governor of Alabama in an interview with [[CNN]], stating that he planned to run in the 2014 election cycle,<ref name=cnn_gov/> but he began to back off the idea in a November 24, 2009 interview on ''[[The Jay Leno Show]]''.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/charles-barkley-on-jay-le_n_371077 | title=Charles Barkley On 'Jay Leno' VIDEO: Trashes Reporters, Talks Sammy Sosa, Politics And More | first=Whitney | last=Snyder | work=[[HuffPost]] | date=November 25, 2009 | access-date=May 2, 2020 | archive-date=July 27, 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200727194051/https://www.huffpost.com/entry/charles-barkley-on-jay-le_n_371077 | url-status=live }}</ref> In 2010, he confirmed that he was not running in 2014.<ref name=cnbc/> In August 2015, Barkley announced his support for Republican [[John Kasich]] in the [[2016 United States presidential election|2016 presidential election]].<ref>{{cite web| url=https://edition.cnn.com/2015/08/22/politics/charles-barkley-john-kasich-black-lives-matter/| title=Barkley says he's leaning toward Kasich for president| work=The CNN Politics.com| date=August 22, 2015| access-date=September 20, 2016| archive-date=October 5, 2016| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161005200934/http://edition.cnn.com/2015/08/22/politics/charles-barkley-john-kasich-black-lives-matter/| url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine| url=https://www.ew.com/gallery/celebrity-endorsements-2016-election/2500463_charles-barkley-john-kasich| title=Celebrity Endorsements 2016: See Stars' Political Affiliations| magazine=Entertainment Weekly| access-date=April 16, 2020| archive-date=November 5, 2018| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181105211851/https://ew.com/gallery/celebrity-endorsements-2016-election/2500463_charles-barkley-john-kasich/| url-status=live}}</ref> On [[Lance Armstrong]]'s podcast in 2019, he confirmed that he would not be running for office.<ref>{{cite podcast |url=https://player.fm/series/the-forward-1280781/charles-barkley |title=The Forward |host=Lance Armstrong |date=January 24, 2019 |time=1:12:18 |access-date=April 10, 2019 |archive-date=April 11, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190411195735/https://player.fm/series/the-forward-1280781/charles-barkley |url-status=live }}</ref>
Barkley supports [[LGBT rights]]. In 2006, he told [[Fox Sports (USA)|Fox Sports]]: "I'm a big advocate of [[gay marriage]]. If they want to get married, God bless them."<ref name=Zirin>{{cite news | url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/invoking-dr-king-charles_b_811085 | title=Invoking Dr. King, Charles Barkley Stands Strongly for LGBT Rights | work=[[HuffPost]] | author-link=Dave Zirin | last=Zirin | first=Dave | date=January 19, 2011 | access-date=May 2, 2020 | archive-date=July 27, 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200727194752/https://www.huffpost.com/entry/invoking-dr-king-charles_b_811085 | url-status=live }}</ref> Speaking to [[Wolf Blitzer]] on [[CNN]] two years later, he said: "Every time I hear the word 'conservative,' it makes me sick to my stomach, because they're really just fake Christians, as I call them. That's all they are. ... I think they want to be judge and jury. Like, I'm for gay marriage. It's none of my business if gay people want to get married. I'm [[pro-choice]]. And I think these Christians, first of all, they're not supposed to judge other people. But they're the most hypocritical judge of people we have in the country. And it bugs the hell out of me. They act like they're Christians. They're not forgiving at all."<ref name=Zirin/> During a 2011 [[Martin Luther King Jr. Day]] double-header on [[TNT (U.S. TV network)|TNT]], Barkley responded to a statement made by [[Martin Luther King Jr.|Dr. King]]'s daughter [[Bernice King|Bernice]], by saying, "People try to make it about black and white. [But] he talked about equality for every man, every woman. We have a thing going on now, people discriminating against homosexuality in this country. I love the homosexuality people. God bless the gay people. They are great people."<ref name=Zirin/> Barkley has stated on several occasions that he has played with multiple gay players.<ref>{{cite web|title=Charles Barkley: 'I probably had three or four gay teammates'|url=https://www.si.com/si-wire/2013/05/07/charles-barkley-gay-teammates-jason-collins-nba |date= May 7, 2013 |author=Weinreich, Marc|access-date=January 23, 2025 |publisher=Sports Illustrated}}</ref> In 2013, in response to Celtics player [[Jason Collins]] coming out, Barkley stated, “I think anybody who thinks they never played with a gay player is an idiot."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cnn.com/2013/04/29/sport/collins-gay/index.html|title= NBA's Jason Collins comes out as gay| date= May 8, 2013 |access-date=January 23, 2025 |last1=Sterling |first1=Joe |last2=Almasy |first2=Steve |publisher=CNN |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211009025623/https://fox2now.com/news/charles-barkley-i-played-with-several-gay-players/|archive-date= October 9, 2021}}</ref> In 2022, a video surfaced of Barkley speaking at an event where he made comments vehemently in favor of the LGBT community: "I want to say this. If you're gay and transgender, I love you. And if anybody gives you sh-t, you tell them Charles said 'f--k you.'"<ref>{{cite web |last1=Factora |first1=James |title=Former NBA Star Charles Barkley Says "I Love You" to Gay and Trans People |url=https://www.them.us/story/nba-star-charles-barkley-says-i-love-you-to-gay-and-trans-people |website=Them |date=July 18, 2022 |publisher=Condé Nast |access-date=20 January 2023 |archive-date=January 20, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230120015435/https://www.them.us/story/nba-star-charles-barkley-says-i-love-you-to-gay-and-trans-people |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Vakil |first1=Caroline |title=NBA's Charles Barkley: 'If you're gay and transgender, I love you! |url=https://thehill.com/blogs/in-the-know/3562621-nbas-charles-barkley-if-youre-gay-and-transgender-i-love-you/ |website=The Hill |publisher=Nexstar Media Group |access-date=20 January 2023 |date=16 July 2022 |archive-date=January 20, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230120015435/https://thehill.com/blogs/in-the-know/3562621-nbas-charles-barkley-if-youre-gay-and-transgender-i-love-you/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Smith |first1=Tandra |title=Charles Barkley goes viral for comments on LGBTQ community |url=https://www.al.com/sports/2022/07/charles-barkleys-comments-about-lgbtq-community-go-viral-if-youre-gay-or-transgender-i-love-you.html |website=AL.com |publisher=Advance Publications, Inc. |access-date=20 January 2023 |language=en |date=16 July 2022 |archive-date=January 20, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230120015435/https://www.al.com/sports/2022/07/charles-barkleys-comments-about-lgbtq-community-go-viral-if-youre-gay-or-transgender-i-love-you.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He spoke out against the [[2023 Bud Light boycott]] in the United States, mainly by conservatives who oppose the brand's endorsements by transgender actress [[Dylan Mulvaney]]; he said that he would buy Bud Light for the crowd at a celebrity golf tournament in [[Lake Tahoe]], and condemned the boycotters as "rednecks".<ref>{{cite news |title=Charles Barkley is (expletive) right, and courageous, in defending transgender community |url=https://eu.usatoday.com/story/sports/columnist/mike-freeman/2023/07/19/charles-barkley-defends-trans-community-bud-light/70424386007/ |access-date=July 19, 2023 |work=USA Today |date=July 19, 2023 |archive-date=July 19, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230719181413/https://eu.usatoday.com/story/sports/columnist/mike-freeman/2023/07/19/charles-barkley-defends-trans-community-bud-light/70424386007/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Commenting on the [[Ferguson unrest]], Barkley called the Ferguson looters "scumbags", praised the police officers who work in black neighborhoods, and said that he supports the decision made by the grand jury not to indict officer Darren Wilson in the [[Shooting of Michael Brown|Michael Brown shooting]].<ref name="supports the Ferguson decision">{{cite news|work=Yahoo news |url=https://news.yahoo.com/why-charles-barkley-supports-ferguson-grand-jury-decision-163736319.html |title=Why Charles Barkley supports the Ferguson grand jury decision |date=December 1, 2014 |access-date=December 1, 2014 |first=Husna |last=Haq |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141203032758/http://news.yahoo.com/why-charles-barkley-supports-ferguson-grand-jury-decision-163736319.html |archive-date=December 3, 2014 }}</ref> Previously, in 2013, Barkley expressed his agreement with the acquittal of [[George Zimmerman]] in the [[Killing of Trayvon Martin|Trayvon Martin shooting]].<ref name="supports the Ferguson decision"/>
In 2014, when Barkley was asked about the rumor that [[Seattle Seahawks]] quarterback [[Russell Wilson]] was being accused for not being "black enough" on the radio show ''Afternoons'' with Anthony and Rob Ellis, he said:
<blockquote>Unfortunately, as I tell my white friends, we as black people, we're never going to be successful, not because of you white people, but because of other black people. When you're black, you have to deal with so much crap in your life from other black people. It's a dirty, dark secret; I'm glad it's coming out. One of the reasons we're never going to be successful as a whole, because of other black people. And for some reason we are brainwashed to think, if you're not a thug or an idiot, you're not black enough. If you go to school, make good grades, speak intelligent, and don't break the law, you're not a good black person. And it's a dirty, dark secret. There are a lot of black people who are unintelligent, who don't have success. It's best to knock a successful black person down because they're intelligent, they speak well, they do well in school, and they're successful... We're the only ethnic group who say, 'Hey, if you go to jail, it gives you street cred.' It's just typical BS that goes on when you're black, man.<ref>{{cite news|work=Mediaite|url=http://www.mediaite.com/online/charles-barkley-goes-off-on-unintelligent-black-people/|title=Charles Barkley Goes Off on 'Unintelligent' Black People|date=October 25, 2014|access-date=September 11, 2016|first=Josh|last=Feldman|archive-date=October 5, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161005230254/http://www.mediaite.com/online/charles-barkley-goes-off-on-unintelligent-black-people/|url-status=live}}</ref></blockquote>
Barkley has also been known as a critic of President [[Donald Trump]] from as early as his Republican nomination in the [[2016 U.S. presidential election]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sbnation.com/2017/12/22/16812528/charles-barkley-mocks-president-donald-trump-republican-tax-plan-sorry-poor-people|title=Charles Barkley mocks President Trump's new tax bill: 'Sorry, poor people'|website=Sbnation.com|date=December 22, 2017|access-date=October 29, 2018|archive-date=August 11, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180811100534/https://www.sbnation.com/2017/12/22/16812528/charles-barkley-mocks-president-donald-trump-republican-tax-plan-sorry-poor-people|url-status=live}}</ref> Before Trump won the Republican primaries that year, Barkley stated his disgust towards the words and messages that Trump was promoting throughout the presidential race. In September 2017, when President Trump called out former [[San Francisco 49ers]] quarterback [[Colin Kaepernick]] for his [[U.S. national anthem protests (2016–present)|kneeling during the U.S. National Anthem]] during the [[2016 NFL season]], Barkley expressed his complete disappointment in President Trump (however, Barkley has stated that he does not support athletes kneeling during the National Anthem as a form of protest).<ref>{{cite podcast|url=https://player.fm/series/the-forward-1280781/charles-barkley|title=The Forward|host=Lance Armstrong|date=January 24, 2019|time=1:15:30|access-date=April 10, 2019|archive-date=April 11, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190411195735/https://player.fm/series/the-forward-1280781/charles-barkley|url-status=live}}</ref> In December 2017, Barkley mocked President Trump's tax bill, stating "Thank you Republicans, I knew I could always count on y'all to take care of us rich people, us one percenters. Sorry, poor people. I'm hoping for y'all, but y'all ain't got no chance."<ref>{{Cite web|last=Winfield|first=Kristian|date=2017-12-22|title=Charles Barkley mocks President Trump's new tax bill: 'Sorry, poor people'|url=https://www.sbnation.com/2017/12/22/16812528/charles-barkley-mocks-president-donald-trump-republican-tax-plan-sorry-poor-people|access-date=2021-05-03|website=SB Nation|language=en|archive-date=December 23, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223024231/https://www.sbnation.com/2017/12/22/16812528/charles-barkley-mocks-president-donald-trump-republican-tax-plan-sorry-poor-people|url-status=live}}</ref>
In his response to the controversy generated by the removal of Confederate monuments as highlighted by the August 2017 [[Unite the Right rally]] in Charlottesville, Virginia, Barkley stated:
{{blockquote|I've never thought about those statues a day in my life. I think if you asked most black people to be honest, they ain't thought a day in their life about those stupid statues. What we as black people need to do: We need to worry about getting our education, we need to stop killing each other, we need to try to find a way to have more economic opportunity and things like that. Those things are important and significant. You know, I'm wasting time and energy [if I'm] screaming at a neo-Nazi, or [saying] 'Man, you've got to take this statue down.'<ref>{{Cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/early-lead/wp/2017/08/18/charles-barkley-im-not-going-to-waste-my-time-worrying-about-these-confederate-statues/ |title=Charles Barkley: 'I'm not going to waste my time worrying about these Confederate statues' |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |access-date=August 22, 2017 |archive-url=http://arquivo.pt/wayback/20170819043454/https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/early%2Dlead/wp/2017/08/18/charles%2Dbarkley%2Dim%2Dnot%2Dgoing%2Dto%2Dwaste%2Dmy%2Dtime%2Dworrying%2Dabout%2Dthese%2Dconfederate%2Dstatues/ |archive-date=August 19, 2017 |url-status=dead}}</ref>}}
[[File:Terri Sewell and Charles Barkley - 2018.jpg|thumb|Congresswoman [[Terri Sewell]] and Charles Barkley at Doug Jones' election night party in 2017.]]
Barkley supported Democrat [[Doug Jones (politician)|Doug Jones]] in the [[United States Senate election in Alabama, 2017|2017 United States Senate special election in Alabama]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2017/11/charles_barkley_roy_moore_shou.html|title=Charles Barkley: Roy Moore should have been disqualified 'way before this woman stuff came up'|last=Pillion|first=Dennis|date=November 25, 2017|website=Al.com|access-date=November 25, 2017|quote=[I]f I lived here, I'd vote for Doug Jones.|archive-date=November 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171125213310/http://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2017/11/charles_barkley_roy_moore_shou.html|url-status=live}}</ref> During Alabama's Senate election, Barkley argued that Jones' competitor, [[Roy Moore]], should have been disqualified: "How can you have a guy who's running with a white separatist running for a political office?"
While Barkley supports [[Police reform|police]] and [[prison reform]]s, he spoke out against [[Defund the police|defunding the police]] in 2020, saying "Who are black people supposed to call? The Ghostbusters?".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carter |first=Josh |date=2020-09-25 |title=Charles Barkley on defunding the police: 'Who are Black people supposed to call? Ghostbusters?' |url=https://www.wlbt.com/2020/09/25/charles-barkley-defunding-police-who-are-black-people-suppose-call-ghostbusters/ |access-date=2023-08-09 |website=Wlbt.com |language=en |archive-date=August 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230810231514/https://www.wlbt.com/2020/09/25/charles-barkley-defunding-police-who-are-black-people-suppose-call-ghostbusters/ |url-status=live }}</ref> After the [[killing of Breonna Taylor]], Barkley said that "I feel sad that this young lady lost her life.", but added that "we do have to take into account that her boyfriend shot at the cops and shot a cop.", making her situation not "like [[Murder of George Floyd|George Floyd]] or [[Murder of Ahmaud Arbery|Ahmaud Arbery]]".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Parker |first=Ryan |date=2020-09-25 |title=Charles Barkley Faces Backlash Over Breonna Taylor Comments During NBA Pregame Show |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/charles-barkley-faces-backlash-over-breonna-taylor-comments-during-nba-pregame-show-4066960/ |access-date=2023-08-09 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |language=en-US |archive-date=August 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230810231604/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/charles-barkley-faces-backlash-over-breonna-taylor-comments-during-nba-pregame-show-4066960/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
Also in 2020, Barkley expressed concern that sports were becoming too political, saying that "My concern is turning this into a circus instead of trying to do some good stuff." and that "The last thing they want to do is turn on the television and hear arguments all the time."<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Golden |first=Jessica |date=2020-07-10 |title=Charles Barkley: Sports are turning social justice issues into a 'circus' |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2020/07/10/charles-barkley-sports-turning-social-justice-issues-into-a-circus.html |access-date=2023-08-09 |website=CNBC |language=en |archive-date=August 10, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230810230138/https://www.cnbc.com/2020/07/10/charles-barkley-sports-turning-social-justice-issues-into-a-circus.html |url-status=live }}</ref>
During the [[COVID-19 pandemic]] in 2020, Barkley said that "You'd have to be a fool to think your kids will be safe in school right now", but argued that keeping children at home would widen the gap between the rich and the poor.<ref name=":0" /> He also expressed optimism about the NBA's planned restart to the [[2019–20 NBA season|2019-2020 season]] in the [[NBA Bubble|NBA bubble]], but worried about some players testing positive for [[COVID-19]].<ref name=":0" />
In an interview with [[Brandon 'Scoop B' Robinson]] on the Scoop B Radio podcast, Barkley said if he ruled the world for one day, he would get rid of both Republicans and Democrats because "They're both awful", adding: "They fight all of the time like little kids."<ref>{{Cite web|title = Charles Barkley Would Like to Get Rid of 'Awful' Republican, Democratic Parties|url = https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2765440-charles-barkley-would-like-to-get-rid-of-awful-republican-democratic-parties|website = Bleacher Report|access-date = May 14, 2018|archive-date = May 15, 2018|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180515043850/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2765440-charles-barkley-would-like-to-get-rid-of-awful-republican-democratic-parties|url-status = live}}</ref>
===Books===
In 1991, Barkley and sportswriter Roy S. Johnson collaborated on the autobiographical work ''Outrageous''. Editorial choices made by Johnson in the book led to Barkley famously quipping that he had been misquoted in his own autobiography.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/19911213/1322835/barkley-misquoted-in-own-book|agency=[[Associated Press]]|title=Barkley 'Misquoted' In Own Book|date=December 13, 1991|access-date=August 19, 2018|archive-date=November 7, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107082420/https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/?date=19911213&slug=1322835|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2000, Barkley wrote the [[foreword]] for ''[[Sports Illustrated]]'' columnist [[Rick Reilly]]'s book ''The Life of Reilly''. In it, Barkley quipped, "Of all the people in sports I'd like to throw through a plate glass window, Reilly's not one of them. It's a shame though, skinny white boys look ''real'' aerodynamic."<ref>thesportstruth.com, [https://web.archive.org/web/20061216083555/http://www.thesportstruth.com/2006/09/the-weigh-in-charles-barkley-vs-gnarls-barkley.html The Sports Truth]. Retrieved November 11, 2007</ref> In 2002, Barkley released the book ''[[I May Be Wrong, But I Doubt It]]'', which included editing and commentary by close friend [[Michael Wilbon]].<ref name="books">usatoday.com, [https://www.usatoday.com/life/books/reviews/2005-05-02-barkley_x.htm Charles Barkley's 'Black Man' talks about racism] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081201181633/http://www.usatoday.com/life/books/reviews/2005-05-02-barkley_x.htm |date=December 1, 2008 }}. Retrieved November 11, 2007</ref> Three years later, Barkley released ''Who's Afraid of a Large Black Man?'', which is a collection of interviews with leading figures in entertainment, business, sports, and government. Michael Wilbon also contributed to this book and was present at many of the interviews.<ref name="books"/>
===Acting===
He played himself in the 1996 film ''[[Space Jam]]''. He made a brief appearance in the TV series ''[[Suits (U.S. TV series)|Suits]]'', in episode 3 of the [[Suits (season 5)|fifth season]]. He was seen taking pictures with a client that was stolen from Jack Soloff, by the great Harvey Specter. Charles also appeared in the eighth season of ''[[Modern Family]]''. He also voices animated versions of himself in ''[[Clerks: The Animated Series]]'' and ''[[We Bare Bears]]''. In 2019, he appeared in "The Piña Colada Song" episode of ''[[The Goldbergs (2013 TV series)|The Goldbergs]]'' as a gym teacher and alien conspiracy theorist briefly trained as a prospective replacement for the departing Coach Mellor.<ref>{{cite web| url = https://6abc.com/entertainment-philadelphia-76ers-legend-charles-barkley-the-goldbergs-on/5089401/| title = Philadelphia 76ers legend Charles Barkley guest stars on 'The Goldbergs' - 6abc Philadelphia| date = January 16, 2019| access-date = November 25, 2021| archive-date = November 25, 2021| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211125144759/https://6abc.com/entertainment-philadelphia-76ers-legend-charles-barkley-the-goldbergs-on/5089401/| url-status = live}}</ref> Barkley hosted ''[[Saturday Night Live]]'' on four separate occasions between 1993 and 2018.
===DUI conviction===
On December 31, 2008, Barkley was pulled over in [[Scottsdale, Arizona]] for running a stop sign.<ref name=arrest/> The officer smelled alcohol on Barkley's breath and proceeded to administer field sobriety tests, which he failed. He was arrested on drunk driving charges and had his vehicle impounded. Barkley refused to submit a breath test and was given a blood test.<ref name=arrest2/> He was then cited and released.<ref name="arrest">{{cite web |work=cbssportsline.com |url=http://www.sportsline.com/nba/story/11211498 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130202212207/http://www.sportsline.com/nba/story/11211498 |url-status=dead |archive-date=2013-02-02 |title=Barkley arrested on suspicion of DUI in Arizona |access-date=December 31, 2008}}</ref> Gilbert police noted Barkley was cooperative and respectful during the entire incident, adding that he was treated no differently than anyone arrested on DUI charges.<ref name=arrest2/> The police report of the incident stated that Barkley told the police he was in a hurry to receive oral sex from his female passenger when he ran through a stop sign early Wednesday.<ref name="arrest2">{{cite web |via=azcentral.com |url=https://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2008/12/31/20081231Barkley31-ON.html |title=Police report: Barkley in hurry to get oral sex |first1=Nathan |last1=Gonzalez |first2=Monique |last2=DeVoe |work=The Arizona Republic |date=December 31, 2008 |access-date=January 1, 2009 |archive-date=November 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://wayback.archive-it.org/all/20211107024207/https://help.azcentral.com/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Test results released by the police showed that Barkley had a blood-alcohol level at .149, nearly twice the legal limit of .08 in Arizona.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/2009-01-09-barkley-results_N.htm?csp=34 |title=Charles Barkley to take leave of absence from TNT after arrest |last=Saraceno |first=Joe |work=USA Today |date=January 9, 2009 |access-date=February 13, 2009 |archive-date=November 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211107081948/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/basketball/nba/2009-01-09-barkley-results_N.htm |url-status=live }}</ref> Two months after his arrest, Barkley pleaded guilty to two DUI-related counts and one count of running a red light. He was sentenced to ten days in jail and fined $2,000.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nba/news/story?id=3929251 |title=Barkley pleads guilty in DUI case |work=ESPN |date=February 23, 2009 |access-date=May 17, 2009 |archive-date=March 6, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090306121321/http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?id=3929251 |url-status=live }}</ref> The sentence was later reduced to three days after Barkley entered an alcohol treatment program.<ref>{{cite web |work=NBA.com |url=http://www.nba.com/2009/news/03/06/barkley.sentence.ap/index.html |title=Barkley's DUI sentence reduced to 3 days in jail |agency=Associated Press |url-status=dead |date=March 6, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090309210425/http://www.nba.com/2009/news/03/06/barkley.sentence.ap/index.html |archive-date=March 9, 2009 |access-date=May 17, 2009}}</ref>
As part of the fallout of his arrest, Barkley took a two-month [[Wikt:hiatus|hiatus]] from his commentating duties for [[Turner Network Television|TNT]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/28447294/ |title=Barkley to take leave of absence after DUI bust |work=MSNBC |date=January 9, 2009 |agency=Associated Press |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090517065728/http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/28447294 |archive-date=May 17, 2009 |access-date=January 12, 2009}}</ref> During his absence, [[T-Mobile US|T-Mobile]] elected not to air previously scheduled ads that featured Barkley.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://msn.foxsports.com/nba/story/9074750?MSNHPHMA |title=T-Mobile Drops Barkley from Ad Campaign |work=Fox Sports |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090115212658/http://msn.foxsports.com/nba/story/9074750?MSNHPHMA |archive-date=January 15, 2009 |date=January 13, 2009 |url-status=dead |access-date=January 14, 2009}}</ref> On February 19, 2009, Barkley returned to TNT and spent the first segment of the NBA pregame show discussing the incident and his experiences.<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/basketball/nba/02/17/barkley.returns.ap/index.html |title=Barkley set to return to TNT |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=February 17, 2009 |access-date=May 25, 2009 |url-status=dead |agency=Associated Press |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090219041406/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/basketball/nba/02/17/barkley.returns.ap/index.html |archive-date=February 19, 2009}}</ref> Shortly after his return, T-Mobile once again began airing ads featuring Barkley.<ref>{{cite news|title=T-Mobile Brings Back 'Fave 5' Charles Barkley Spots|url=https://adage.com/article/news/t-mobile-brings-back-fave-5-charles-barkley-advertising/134644|date=17 February 2009|work=AdAge|first=Rich|last=Thomaselli|access-date=23 March 2023}}</ref>
===WeightWatchers===
In 2011, Barkley became a spokesman for [[WeightWatchers]], promoting their "Lose Like a Man" program and appearing in both television and online ads.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hoppes |first=Lynn |title=Charles Barkley is new spokesman for Weight Watchers – Page 2 |url=https://www.espn.com/espn/page2/index/_/id/7347830 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181030035609/http://www.espn.com/espn/page2/index/_/id/7347830 |archive-date=October 30, 2018 |access-date=October 29, 2018 |website=ESPN.com}}</ref>
==See also==
{{Portal|Basketball|Biography|Sports}}
{{div col}}
* ''[[Barkley Shut Up and Jam!]]'', a 1994 video game
* ''[[Barkley Shut Up and Jam 2]]'', a 1995 video game
* ''[[Barkley, Shut Up and Jam: Gaiden]]'', a 2008 video game
* [[List of members of the Basketball Hall of Fame]]
* [[List of NBA career scoring leaders]]
* [[List of NBA career rebounding leaders]]
* [[List of NBA career steals leaders]]
* [[List of NBA career turnovers leaders]]
* [[List of NBA career personal fouls leaders]]
* [[List of NBA career field goal percentage leaders]]
* [[List of NBA career free throw scoring leaders]]
* [[List of NBA career minutes played leaders]]
* [[List of NBA career triple-double leaders]]
* [[List of NBA career playoff rebounding leaders]]
* [[List of NBA career playoff steals leaders]]
* [[List of NBA career playoff free throw scoring leaders]]
* [[List of NBA career playoff triple-double leaders]]
* [[List of NBA annual rebounding leaders]]
* [[List of NBA single-game playoff scoring leaders]]
* [[List of NBA single-game rebounding leaders]]
* [[List of NBA single-season rebounding leaders]]
* ''[[Godzilla vs. Charles Barkley]]''
* [[Gnarls Barkley]]
{{div col end}}
==Notes==
{{notelist}}
==References==
{{reflist}}
==Bibliography==
* {{cite book
| last = Barkley
| first = Charles
| author2 = Michael Wilbon
| title = I May Be Wrong but I Doubt It
| year = 2002
| publisher = [[Random House]]
| isbn = 0-375-50883-X
| author-link2 = Michael Wilbon
| url-access = registration
| url = https://archive.org/details/imaybewrongbutid00bark_0
}}
* {{cite book
| last = Barkley
| first = Charles
| author2 = Michael Wilbon
| title = Who's Afraid of a Large Black Man?
| year = 2005
| publisher = [[Penguin Press]]
| isbn = 1-59420-042-4
| author-link2 = Michael Wilbon
| url-access = registration
| url = https://archive.org/details/whosafraidoflarg00bark
}}
==External links==
{{Wikiquote}}
{{Commons category|Charles Barkley}}
{{Basketballstats|nba=787|bbr=b/barklch01}}
* {{Official website|https://charlesbarkley.com}}
* [http://www.nba.com/history/players/barkley_bio.html Charles Barkley: NBA.com Historical Biography]
* {{Basketballhof|charles-barkley}}
* {{IMDb name|0004725|Charles Barkley}}
* [http://www.encyclopediaofalabama.org/face/Article.jsp?id=h-1251 Charles Barkley article, Encyclopedia of Alabama] ({{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131110190041/http://www.encyclopediaofalabama.org/face/Article.jsp?id=h-1251 |date=November 10, 2013 }})
* {{YouTube|b2m4sXJtu3I|Charles Barkley Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame enshrinement speech}}
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