Formerly a tough competitor in the world of basketball, Charles Barkley had unflinching faith in his capacity to win. He talked about his past friendship with Michael Jordan during a podcast appearance with Bill Simons.
He also remembered his haughty boast about “playing with Bums in Philly” and being on par with “His Airness“. Barkley also revealed the factors that contributed to the breakup of their once-vibrant friendship. In his first season with the franchise, Charles helped the Suns secure the finest record in the professional circuit.
Barkley acknowledges Duncan’s dominance
Simply put, many believe that Charles Barkley along with Michael Jordan is one of the greatest basketball players in history. He is recognized as one of the foremost power forwards throughout the annals of NBA history and was an MVP winner in 1993.
"I think Tim Duncan's the greatest power forward ever."
Nothing but respect from Charles Barkley!#TDHoF | #20HoopClass pic.twitter.com/cm0yZIhuez
— San Antonio Spurs (@spurs) May 15, 2021
He was an 11-time All-Star. But does he believe that he is the best power forward? Barkley’s comment on The Dan Patrick Show in 2017 was unmistakable evidence that he thought Tim “The Big Fundamental” Duncan, by all means, was superior to him. Patrick asked “Sir Charles” a daring question right away, asking if he thought he was better than Tim Duncan, as soon as the interview started.
The 11-time NBA All-Star responded, “No, Tim Duncan is the greatest power forward ever.” he also acknowledged that Duncan had indeed benefited from having a strong supporting cast when enquired if he received any help. Barkley asserted “He did, but he was dominant.” “The Round Mound of Rebound” maintained that the key to Duncan’s greatness lay in his ability to dominate in the post.
Barkley confesses Michael Jordan is better due to superior teammates
After the Sixers’ dismal 1991–1992 campaign, in which they went 35–47 and missed the playoffs, Barkley joined the Suns. The squad had lost in the Eastern Conference playoffs the previous two seasons. Charles had failed to assemble a roster around him and was aware that the team was not going anywhere.
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Now the 5-time All-NBA First Team star undoubtedly thought highly of himself and his abilities then. “I think I’m the best damn player in the world. I said Michael Jordan just better than me cuz he got better players,” he added. After joining the Suns, Charles, a star at the time, went up against Jordan in the 1993 NBA Finals.
Both of them were selected in the renowned 1984 draft class that also contained future Hall of Famers Hakeem Olajuwon and John Stockton. While Michael Jordan spent the majority of his time with the Chicago Bulls, Barkley started his career with the Sixers before moving on to the Suns and Rockets.
