Charles Barkley is arguably one of the bluntest and to-the-point critics. He holds nothing back no matter the nature of his opinion. Notably, the NBA Hall of Famer went as far as doubting Michael Jordan’s capabilities as an owner. However, despite his nature, there are some things even the Round Mound of Rebound refrains from doing on television. Notably, no matter how furious or agitated an event makes him, Barkley vowed never to say a person should lose their job. But a bizarre recent occurrence drove the former NBA MVP over the edge.
It took place in Virginia where a girls’ varsity game took place. Notably, Jahmal Street faced off against Nansemond River on January 21. The contest was never meant to make national headlines. However, a peculiar feature of the game raised several eyebrows. Several videos showed a girl dominating the Nansemond Riverside. In addition, she looked much stronger and taller than the rest.
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After further investigation, it was found out the player was a 22-year-old woman. She was the assistant coach for the Virginia team and posed as a 13-year-old to make up for an absent player. Reacting to the news, Charles Barkley was beyond furious, and he said something he promised to never say in 23 years of television.
Charles Barkley wants everyone fired
During the recent ‘The Steam Room’ episode, Ernie Johnson and Barkley spoke about the Virginia basketball game debacle. Visibly upset by the situation. Barkley went as far as breaking his promise. Notably, the 11-time All-Star spoke about a deal he made with himself. Barkley would never say anyone should be fired on national television. However, at the mercy of the situation, Barkley couldn’t see any other feasible alternative.
While on The Steam Room, he said, “They let a 22-year-old woman play as a 13-year-old kid. Imagine it Ernie she was better than everybody else.” Barkley further said, “I don’t know who blew the whistle, but everybody should get fired.”
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At the end of the discussion, both co-hosts came to a common conclusion. Notably, Jahmal Street’s coach should never be allowed to manage another team.
The issue is much more serious than it looks. While it comes off as a simple infringement, such action has serious consequences. According to The Guardian, one of the referees of the game spoke on the situation. He felt their actions were completely unfair to the kids who came to compete. In addition, another executive admitted to failing the kids.
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What happened was undoubtedly cruel to the children. Their season got over due to the actions of their own coaches. It also goes against the integrity of the beautiful game of basketball. Both the assistant coach and head coach were rightfully fired from their roles. However, do you think that action is enough?