Charles Barkley is one of the richest personalities in sports media. Through his TNT deal, he has earned a significant amount as well. If all goes well and TNT retains the NBA media rights, Barkley will be seen well into his third decade on the show. However, Barkley has also ventured into other businesses, which have helped him amass $70 million throughout his entire career.

Here is everything we know about Barkley’s business deals. 

Charles Barkley’s brand endorsements

Beginning from his professional career, the Phoenix Suns legend has always had numerous brand deals. He has previously worked with Nike, Right Guard, Capital One, T-Mobile, Coca-Cola, McDonald’s, and more. Through these endorsement deals, he has earned around $5 to $10 million. One of the most memorable is the Nike deal which saw Barkley shoot a commercial. The ad became popular for Barkley’s comment where he said that he doesn’t wish to be a “role model” for kids.

Much of his wealth comes from his clever investments. ‘Sir Charles’ has benefitted much from two of his important investments. One of those is NeuroVice. This company deals with improving medical technology. Another is his investment in Spelman College. 

There are other business deals and investments that contributed to his business empire. One of them is his Vodka brand named Redmont Vodka that is a premium small batch spirit.

Charles Barkley has a majority ownership stake in Redmont Vodka

In an urge to enhance the economy of Alabama where he grew up, the Phoenix Suns legend often engages in business deals that align with his goal. One such is the Birmingham-based Vodka brand.

“This is my hometown and to do an event here, and I want to thank Logans for picking up the vodka, but to do an event in Leeds makes it even more special. This is my hometown. Means a lot to me… I just want to see Leeds do well and thrive,” the Hall of Famer said during a launch event. 

After the prohibition, Redmont Vodka emerged as the first legal distillery in Alabama. Moreover, Barkley’s role as an owner has also helped boost sales. Speaking of the brand, Barkley said, “I’m a vodka splash of cranberry guy. I love vodka. I really think our product is really good or I wouldn’t have bought the company.”

Sir Charles has earned around $40 million during his playing days in the league. However, he has been able to earn much more after his retirement. While the business deals have certainly boosted, it was his analyst job that saw his net worth significantly increase.

Charles Barkley’s out clause in the TNT deal can bring him a fortune

Almost 24 years ago, Chuck was in his last NBA season. It was around this time when TNT announced that the Philadelphia 76ers legend would join Ernie Johnson and Kenny Smith as a TNT analyst. While his initial desire wasn’t to lengthen his time on the show, Chuck ended up being a permanent member of the roster for over two decades now. 

Last year, Chuck signed a 10-year deal with TNT that pays him more than $100 million. However, he has also mentioned that his deal includes a clause allowing him to terminate the contract if a certain condition is not met. The condition is for TNT to have NBA rights which is currently in jeopardy.

With tension rising over the TNT deal, there is a chance he might need to utilize that clause. If Barkley were to become a free agent, he could potentially receive offers of up to $20 million or more from ESPN or Amazon. Despite losing a huge amount due to his gambling habits, ‘Sir Charles’ has managed to amass a substantial net worth. And even if TNT losing the NBA rights will break our hearts, it will benefit ‘Sir Charles’. 

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about the marketing genius, watch this video.