New-generation fans know Charles Barkley as the veteran analyst on Inside the NBA. A member of the show’s crew, the basketball legend is well-known for sharing his candid takes on sports with the enthusiasts. And over the years, Chuckster has been given several nicknames throughout his career. Some were earned during his playing days as a tribute to his skill, and others were acquired in his role as an analyst for Turner Sports, where he’s worked for over 23 years. Among his most famous monikers, the one that almost every fan remembers is the Round Mound of Rebound. It’s also one of the oldest. But what is the story behind it?

This nickname goes all the way back to his college days. And there’s an interesting tale behind it. Auburn University, where Chuck played, was mostly known for its football program. The basketball team wasn’t as popular in comparison. But then they landed one of their most talented players, Charles Barkley. 

Former Philadelphia 76ers executive Pat Williams once shared that, while Chuck was gaining recognition within the basketball community, many outside it weren’t familiar with him. Sports Illustrated was interested in doing a story on him and a chance was provided for the team to gain popularity.

In an urge to bring more attention to the basketball program, he was given several nicknames. “We were trying to drum up support at Auburn because we’re a football school. They were going to do a story on me for Sports Illustrated,” he said on All The Smoke Podcast.

Some of his nicknames included “Crisco Kid,” “The Good Time Blimp,” and “The Wide Load from Leeds” which was a nod to his hometown, Leeds. But we know which nickname won.

Why is ‘Round Mound of Rebound’ so popular?

The reason is simple. When he entered college, the Philadelphia 76ers legend quickly gained recognition for his exceptional game. “I think by the end of my sophomore year, I was leading the league in rebounding again. I think that’s when it switched to ‘Round Mound of Rebound.’ They were doing anything to drum up support,” Barkley said about earning the nickname.

However, there was one thing that concerned the NBA franchise interested in him: Chuck’s weight. At the time, he weighed around 290 pounds. It was thrilling for fans to watch a 6’4″ player dominate with such skill in rebounding and dunking. As he began working out to slim down for the NBA, he had already become widely known by the nickname. The story behind it is part of what makes it so memorable.

Chuck played three years for the Auburn Tigers, where he averaged 9.6 rebounds and led the team to its first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance. Hence, his unmatchable skills on the glass brought him the name. His phenomenal performance eventually led to him being selected as the fifth-overall pick by the 76ers. But it wasn’t without effort. He had to maintain a strict diet to lose weight.

In an interview, Williams recalled how it took multiple conversations about balanced eating before Chuck fully understood the importance of weight management for his career. Williams praised Barkley claiming that the 11x NBA All-Star was “terrific” in his game. Chuck has always emphasized how rebounding is a tough skill to hone.

“And same thing with rebounding, you gotta get in there and start beating up people. The ball is the most valuable thing out there, so if you gonna be a great rebounder, you gonna have to take some beatings,” Barkley once said.

However, it’s been over three decades since Barkley was given that nickname, and he has moved on from it. Most importantly, he no longer likes to be called by it.

Why doesn’t Charles Barkley like to be called ‘Round Mound of Rebound’?

It was a health issue that led Chuck to finally leave the nickname behind. Back in college, his weight could have become a problem for him in the NBA. But after his retirement, Sir Charles gained weight again, potentially leading to further health concerns.

Following a visit with his doctor, Chuck started focusing on his diet and fitness again. He brought his weight down from 352 lbs to 290 lbs which is quite impressive. He now even has specific weight goals that he’s determined to reach, which might explain why Chuck no longer likes the Round Mound of Rebound moniker. 

“Don’t be calling me Round Mound. First of all, I’m not Round Mound anymore. But ease up on the Round Mound,” Chuck said on The Steam Room podcast.

A new nickname might be needed for the Phoenix Suns legend. Interestingly, Chuck even owns a company inspired by his former nickname, Round Mound Media. Founded in 2018, the company was relaunched in 2024 in collaboration with EverWonder Studio. Although he no longer wants to be called by that nickname, it will always be a part of his legacy.