Charles Barkley’s playing career spanned 16 seasons, with stints in Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Houston. He earned the nickname “The Round Mound of Rebound” for his dominant rebounding skills, averaging 11.7 rebounds per game. Who needs a six-pack when you can grab boards like Chuck? Charles Barkley was an 11-time NBA All-Star and became a member of the 1992 Olympic “Dream Team” that brought home the gold medal. Well, on his birthday, legendary player Spencer Haywood wished him well.

He also competed in the 1996 Olympics, helping the US team secure another gold. Who wouldn’t want Chuck on their team? Such accolades helped “Sir Charles” receive such a high level of respect that he enjoys now from his peers and later generations. Today is the birthday of the legendary basketball player and the basketball world is sending him love. Just earlier, Shaquille O’Neal serenaded his co-analyst on Inside the NBA on TNT. Thus, Spencer too came in his appreciation for Sir Charles!

He took the time to share his appreciation for Chuck. Both Haywood and Barkley are members of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Taking the chance to bless Barkley, Haywood shared a picture of himself along with the latter on his Instagram Story. The picture seemingly taken at this year’s NBA All-Star weekend showcased the closeness between the two.

Even the choice of song for the story was interesting. Haywood chose the 1972 Stevie Wonder hit, “Higher Ground”. In the caption, he wrote an eye-catching message to Barkley. It read, “Charles-knows All-Barkley MY PROTECTOR”.

Notably, Haywood shared how close he considers Barkley to himself through this heartfelt birthday tribute. This message from Haywood becomes even more profound after considering the emotional turmoil he is currently going through.

Spencer Haywood’s tribute to his beloved late wife

Spencer Haywood’s life is a story of highs and lows. While he conquered basketball, achieving legendary status, his personal life also faced challenges. For over three decades, Linda Haywood was his rock. Their love story was one of true partnership where they were the spiritual pillars for one another. Sadly, Linda passed away in 2022. This loss was so immeasurable for the NBA legend it left him devastated.

The couple married in 1990 and their journey lasted strong for over 34 years. Even with his illustrious achievements, including an Olympic gold medal, becoming an NBA champion, and a Hall of Famer, he still relied on Linda. She was not just his wife but also his silent strength, best friend, and biggest fan. They had three daughters: Courtney, Shaakira, and Isis, whom they raised with love.

Recently, Spencer shared his grief on Instagram, and he posted a couple of pictures of the love of his life, Linda. His caption read, “MISSING MY LATE WIFE LINDA. IT HAS BEEN THREE YEARS.” In another post, he shared a picture of himself. He wrote, “I’M FINALLY READY TO MOVE ON AFTER LOSING MY LATE WIFE LINDA THREE YEARS AGO.”

Spencer’s posts show his sorrow as he expresses his plans to move on from the grief. Despite the emotional turmoil he was experiencing, Haywood decided to uplift himself by writing a positive message for his longtime friend, Charles Barkley! What do you think about the situation?

Share your prayers and blessings for the legendary athlete and his late wife in the comments below.