Despite Being Sent to Houston on Sour Note, Charles Barkley Had Immense Praise for 1 Aspect of the City

The controversial trade of the Houston Rockets back in 1996 remains one of the most popular discussions. While the franchise was unable to win a title with the 11x NBA All-Star, Charles Barkley, the pros of that deal are still significant. Despite the many expectations placed on the trade, the outcome did not turn out favorably. Four years later, the legend described his favorite aspect of being sent to Houston.

Back in his college days, Sir Charles was known for his indulgent diet. Fans are well aware of the photo showing the young Barkley relishing his pizza. Even toward the end of his career, there wasn’t much change in his favorites.

Charles Barkley’s love for the best of Houston

The 1996 trade is deemed not only one of the most controversial but also one of the league’s worst in history. The franchise lost two of its key players to acquire Barkley who was no longer in his prime. Despite joining a star team, Sir Charles wasn’t able to achieve a ring in his career. The team also lost its chance to play against the Bulls.?

Even if the aim of the trade was to secure a championship, the legend once stated that winning one with the Rockets wouldn’t hold any significance for him, even if he had succeeded. Despite not having success with the team, Barkley mentioned one of his favorite parts of the city, which is its restaurants. He was fond of the restaurants in Houston. He said, ?Houston is one of the best restaurant cities in America. Maybe the most underrated one.?

He also named one of his favorite restaurants. He added, ?A spot named Ruggles is one of my favorites.?

The Houston Rockets traded two key players for Charles Barkley

Many have admitted how it was a foolish trade. The franchise already has star players such as Hakeem Olajuwon on their roster. However, in order to bring the Philadelphia 76ers legend, the team traded its young talented players namely Robert Horry, Sam Cassell, Mark Bryant, and Chucky Brown.?

While Horry won a few more rings going ahead, Cassel also had an illustrious career with many accolades. Certainly, it wasn’t a great deal. People were quite harsh in criticizing the trade and the legend. Some added how his role didn’t benefit the franchise.?

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Charles Barkley?s team-up with Hakeem Olajuwon

During an interview after the trade, Chucks notes, ?I?m very excited. Obviously, it?s something I wanted to do. Houston was my first priority. At this stage of my career, I?m not a great player. I?m a good player. But with Hakeem and Clyde, I have a great shot at a championship.?

Following the comment, it was assumed that it was Sir Charles himself who facilitated the trade. What’s upsetting is the team never even reached the NBA finals. While his first season together with the super team was disappointing, injuries marred his next season. They lost again against the Utah Jazz.?

Following that, the Rockets once again attempted their luck by bringing Scottie Pippen into the roster. However, this time, their hopes were dampened by Shaquille O’Neal?s Los Angeles Lakers. While his dreams didn?t come true with the Rockets, he still holds some love for the city.

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