True, genuine friendships are hard to come by in the NBA. Whether it be professional or personal jealousy, maintaining a camaraderie is tough. Especially, if you’re at the top of the basketball food chain like Michael Jordan. While his friendships with the likes of Scottie Pippen have deteriorated, his bond with Charles Barkley remained strong for a long time.

Even though eventually, the two fell apart, there was a time when the two were thick as thieves. So much so, that even Charles insulting him on live television would cause Mike to chuckle instead of retaliate.

The incredible bond between Barkley and Michael Jordan

For years, Chuck and Jordan were inseparable. Whether it was super expensive gifts or their regular golfing trips, the two were as close as imaginable. However, it didn’t last and the two eventually fell apart. But, during their peak, the duo was a constant source of comedy. While Charles provides a lot of hilarity with Shaquille O’Neal on our TV sets these days, his bantering personality was in full force with Michael as well.

NBA Buzz recently shared a bunch of highlights of the Round Mound of Rebound jabbing with the six-time champion. In one such clip, Barkley took a direct shot at Mike’s “good looks”. “Everybody’s always kissing his b**t…People tell me he?s handsome? he?s not handsome. $3-4-500 Million dollars, you become handsome.”

The two were so close at one time that the Chuckster had to clear up the story behind a jewelry gift from His Airness himself. Moreover, there were even theories about the two colluding when MJ faced off against the Phoenix Suns in the 1993 NBA Finals.

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Of course, things changed drastically. But hearing Charles’ comments, Jordan could not help but break into his Cheshire smile, while laughing the words off.

It is a far cry from today when a slight provocation led to the downfall of the duo’s friendship.

One comment provokes Jordan to end the friendship

During his tenure on TNT, Chuck has not been shy in divulging his opinion. Whether critiquing or joking, his brash honesty can rub some people the wrong way. Unfortunately, one of those times caused an end to his storied friendship with MJ.

The 5-time MVPs tenure as owner and GM of the Charlotte Hornets was contentious, to say the least. So, when the Philadelphia 76ers legend criticized his stint, it wasn’t much of a shock. However, Mike took it personally.

Retaliating against Chuck, Mike called him and said,?“motherf*****, fu** you! You supposed to be my boy.” As a result, their friendship came to an abrupt end.

Almost 10 years later, the two remain on silent terms, having not spoken the entire time. But, maybe seeing this resurfaced clip can remind the two of a more peaceful time and help them hash out their differences.

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