Having Been Criticized for Auburn Connection, Charles Barkley Shows Off Roots in Hype Video Ahead of Alma-Mater’s Season Opener: ?That?s My History?

There is a special love that NBA stars share for their alma maters. While their eventual NBA city embraces them, their colleges are what first catapult them into the national spotlight. This year alone, we’ve seen the reception for Derrick Rose in a return to Memphis. In the case of Auburn alumnus Charles Barkley, that bond continues to persist despite some differences.

Even though he’s had to deal with backlash due to his connection, the NBA Hall of Famer continues to showcase his support.

Charles Barkley turns voiceover extraordinaire

His latest contribution to Auburn could be another notch in those contributions. The college season hype continues to be a yearly trend. The place where basketball first became a truly popular sport is still a major draw. And, to start the year correctly, Auburn brought in its most famous basketball alum.

In a heartfelt introduction, Chuck was able to exude the gravity and brilliance that is often outshined by his humorous side. “What is Auburn basketball? What is my testimony?” As the video package cut to some of Barkley’s highlights at Auburn, of which there were many, the answer was obvious. “This is my testimony. It’s fast-paced, high-flying, championship, hard-nosed.”

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Continuing, he was dead clear on the mentality that the team plays with. “It’s beating that time across the court, every damn time. It’s college basketball history. No royalty here. That’s my history. Now it’s time to keep writing our story. Let’s make history.” From there he broke out into a cry for the iconic, “War damn eagle. “

Safe to say, those critiques aren’t going to hold the Chuckster back. While an alum, the Philadelphia 76ers legend has had a tumultuous relationship with the college.

Charles Barkley’s unique relationship with Auburn

Even though he’s put aside $5 million from his will towards the college, he does remain impartial on matters about Auburn. Recently, he even went in depth about the disrespect he had to endure during his time there.

But his connection to the place has made him a few enemies as well. Although, this time around, it was probably more his own doing. 7x NBA Champion Robert Horry is among the most clutch players the game has ever seen. With nerves of steel, Horry was able to come through time and time again, showcasing his nerves of steel.

So, naturally, he had the same mentality as a young player first coming into the league as well. In his “Welcome to the NBA” moment, Barkley hit?Big Shot?with an elbow to his midsection. However, rather than complain, Horry was ready to dish out some punishment of his own via a shot to the neck.

As Bob reveals, “Hey. Don’t do that to me. You [Charles Barkley] from Auburn, too, and I hate people from Auburn. You done messed up now.”?

Even though his association with the college has given him his share of troubles, Chuck isn’t afraid of showcasing his Tigers pride. Can the team replicate its past glory in this upcoming season? Only time will tell.

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