Today, Charles Barkley is one of the most sought-after sports media personalities in the world. His strong opinions as an NBA analyst definitely set the tone for what a basketball fan should expect. During his playing days in the NBA, he was one of the fiercest rebounders in the league earning him the nickname, ?The Round Mound of Rebound?.
In chapter 2 of his book, ?I May Be Wrong But I Doubt It?, the NBA Hall of Famer talks about his life?s purpose and his rise to stardom.
Charles Barkley?s Relentless Rise to Stardom
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In chapter 2 of his book, Barkley mentions meeting one member of the British royal family. He writes, ?I’m nearly forty years old, have traveled all around the world, met presidents and kings. Damn, I met Princess Diana, met Prince Albert of Monaco.?
He continues, ?So I’m not that same kid from the projects of Leeds, Alabama. If I’m that same guy now, all these years later with all this money and opportunities and mentors…?
Charles Barkley further elaborates, ?If I haven’t evolved as a person and taken advantage of these chances to say something and do something and help somebody, then I’d be a damn fool. I don’t want to hear that shit about keeping it real. My reality is the body of work I’ve built over my life, the stuff I’ve accomplished.?.
The former NBA star has experienced and worked a lot in his life. He has single-handedly ensured the financial future of his entire family and also contributed greatly to the world of basketball. He was one of the most tough and talented NBA players during his era and even won the coveted NBA?s ?Most Valuable Player Award? over Michael Jordan in 1993.
Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley?s decades-long feud
Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley played in the same era of the NBA (1980-2000s). They were two shining stars of the NBA and even represented the U.S.A. in the iconic Olympics? ?Dream Team?.
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They shared a close friendship for a long time and were often spotted hanging out together playing golf. However, their long-term friendship came to an abrupt end after Michael Jordan got extremely upset by one of Barkley?s actions as an NBA analyst.
Known for his strong opinions, Charles Barkley publicly let his disappointment be known regarding Michael Jordan?s poor management of his NBA team, the Charlotte Hornets. Amid all the hate that the Chicago Bulls legend was getting from the NBA, Michael Jordan seemed most affected by his close friend?s comments. He then called Charles Barkley one night and confronted him about what he said. That was the last time they ever spoke in the last two decades.
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