“You Are the Biggest Loser in the World”: 32 Years After Spitting on a Heckler and Hitting a Young Girl, Charles Barkley Reveals the Real Reason for the “Low Point” of His Career

NBA legend Charles Barkley has had his fair share of controversies while playing in the league. One of the most infamous moments of his career took place in New Jersey in 1992 when the Round Mound of Rebound was in his prime. Barkley was a young hot headed juggernaut back then and had no control over his emotion. During a game, Barkley lost his cool and had an ugly altercation with the fans which cost him a lot. 

Barkley spat on a heckler, which ended up causing a ruckus for various reasons. During a recent interview with CBS News, the Hall of Famer reflected upon his actions and revealed what changed in him that fateful night.

Charles Barkley revealed his thoughts on the fateful day

Charles Barkley was like any other youngster during his early days in the league. Hot-headed, clumsy, and full of confidence. Sometimes the emotions used to get the better of Barkley.

Things got out of hand in 1992 when Barkley was in New Jersey. Playing against the New Jersey Nets, Sir Charles proceeded to spit on one heckler after enduring a lot of taunting. Unfortunately, it missed its intended target and hit an eight-year-old girl instead.

“I got suspended, rightfully so. I was sittin’ in my hotel room, and I was like, ‘You are the biggest loser in the world.’ I, I remember saying ‘This is it tonight,'” said Barkley during the interview with CBS News. The then-76ers star was fined $10,000 and was suspended without pay for a game following this incident.

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However, Barkley, who once spent a night in jail, was a changed man after that episode. He was focused solely on basketball and his improved performances reflected a change in attitude.

Barkley transformed his life and career after this incident

The 76ers traded Charles Barkley to the Phoenix Suns following this season. Unlike his time with the Sixers, Chuck was older and wiser now and he assumed the role of the leader.

Barkley led the Suns for a brilliant 1992-93 NBA season and also took them to the Finals. Chuck averaged 25.6 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 5.1 assists. Thanks to such numbers, he was awarded the regular season MVP award.

Unfortunately, the Suns and Barkley’s stellar run ended in despair. They faced Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls in the Finals and lost the series 4-2. 

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