Basketball Hall of Famer Charles Barkley‘s life has been a great balance of highs and lows. Today, he stands as one of the most renowned and wealthy NBA stars of all time. However, Chuck has seen his fair share of dark times in life. Growing up in Leeds, Alabama with bare minimum resources, he went on to become a legend of the game. Now a famous man with more wealth than he needs, Barkley has been spot-on with his philanthropic duties as well.

Last year, he revealed that he used to tell his mother to not copy Shaquille O’Neal’s mother as he wasn’t making the same money as Shaq. A recent revelation on Sir Charles suggests that he has donated $8 million to different Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Sir Charles is one of the world’s greatest philanthropists and humanitarians

Known today for his role as an analyst and his shows in the media business, the Round Mound of Rebound is also one of the best to ever play the game of basketball. Barkley’s road to his 11 NBA All-Star appearances wasn’t easy. Even after he made it into the NBA, Barkley had to stop his mother from spending money like Shaq’s mother. In 2022, during his appearance on The Big Podcast, Chuck revealed that he explained to his mother the difference in income in his and Shaq’s life. Chuck told his mother, “Mom, I don’t make money like Shaq. You can’t spend money like Shaq’s mom can.”

Despite that admission, the NBA’s beloved Sir Charles is in a very financially secure phase in his life. His contract with TNT is reportedly worth over $100 million, securing his job as an analyst for a decade. It is not just about the money for him, Barkley makes sure that he gives back to his community.

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From giving financial aid to teachers, janitors, cafeteria workers, and bus drivers in his hometown of Leeds to helping provide laptops and internet for schools, he is fulfilling his duties as a sports icon. He also donated $8 million to different HBCUs. While talking about his philanthropic work, Chuck said, “All this money (I’m making) is crazy. I’m gonna use the rest of my life to bless as many people as I possibly can.”

The legacy of Charles Barkley on and off the court

Now at 60 years of age, Barkley is a proud grandfather, and he talks about his grandkids every chance he gets. He has successfully turned himself into a people’s man. His constant banter with Shaq, Ernie Johnson, and Kenny Smith is an absolute treat for fans to watch.

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The newer generation may not remember him as one of the 75 greatest basketball players of all time, but the footprints of the legend, who is willing to do everything he can for his people, will be long remembered.