“My Gift From God Is My Body”: Despite Struggling With Injuries, Witty Charles Barkley Slapped Back at Magic Johnson in 1993

An 11x NBA All-Star, Charles Barkley is one of the most dominant players in the history of the league. He had played against some of the greats like Michael Jordan during his triumphant career. Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson and Chuck share a great camaraderie even after their retirement. However, during an interview in 1993, Chuck wittingly hit back at his friend over a comment. Chuck was known as one of the fiercest on the hardwood as he didn’t let injuries stop his dominance on the court. 

Barkley’s NBA career stretched over 16 long years and he majorly represented the Philadelphia 76ers. During his stint with the Phoenix Suns in 1993, Chuck sustained injuries, but surprisingly he continued to play with the pain. As he famously said in the interview, “I think you play with pain, that’s part of my job.”

Charles Barkley gives a fitting reply to Magic Johnson

In an episode of ‘The Arsenio Hall Show’ in 1993, Hall referred to one of Magic Johnson’s statements on Chuck. Hall said, “Magic said that the thing he hates about you is you throw people all over the court and as soon as somebody just touch you, you start nagging and complaining and whining.” Barkley replied after a smile, “Well my gift from God is my body,” following his statement, the audience on the show roared and applauded. Chuck continued, “I play really really aggressive, really really physical, and I try to wear down my opponent.” 

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He further went on to talk about Johnson’s guarding skill, but he eventually ended the conversation with a sweet gesture. Chuck said, “He [Magic Johnson] puts his knee up you can’t get in front of him, but he’s a true gentleman and that’s what I like about him the most.

Chuck’s hearty gesture to Johnson

The year 1991 came as a shocker for almost every NBA fan when Magic Johnson revealed that he had contracted HIV. The Sixers’ legend Barkley then donned Johnson’s jersey number #32 for the entire season to honor the Lakers legend. Most notably, Chuck debuted the #32 which was already retired by the Sixers franchise as an honor to Billy Cunningham. He continued to wear the jersey despite the hate from Sixers fans. 

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What do you make of Charles Barkley’s statement in 1993? Let us know in the comments below.