Charles Barkley Joins Shaquille O’Neal in Embracing Zach Edey’s ‘Greatness’ after Championship Game

Charles Barkley took a quick break from broadcasting duties at the NCAA title game to commend the runners-up. After Purdue lost 75-60 to the defending champs UConn, Chuck zipped down to congratulate the Boilermakers for a great run on the way back to the locker room. He wanted to mostly congratulate his favorite player on the team, Zach Edey. The underrated center was the reason Purdue came so far and he’s a favorite of the TNT crew. Especially the resident big man alliance prez, Shaquille O’Neal.

After Shaq praised Edey, Barkley warmed hearts with his gesture. He started a handshake line leading to the Purdue locker room, shaking everyone’s hands. Kenny ‘The Jet’ Smith was also there. Both, though, held Edey for a few seconds each to share some words of praise. There was a little hilarious moment where Chuck didn’t notice Will Berg’s extended hand because he was preoccupied with Edey.

Shaq previously christened Edey ‘Zachille O’Neal’ for putting up monster stats similar to himself during the 1991-92 NCAA tournaments. Edey humbly accepted Shaq’s praise as he led Purdue through the Final Four and to the title game. Edey’s been getting attention for being bigger than Victor Wembanyama too. So when he and Shaq had a post-game moment, fans loved it.

O’Neal also had a lot of praise for Edey. “He has a nice touch around the basket. He uses his body well. He’s playing very well and he’s staying out of foul trouble.” Shaq, along with his son Shareef, were rooting for Edey and Purdue to win. Much like Shaq, Chuck too has been watching Edey and is vocal about his immense potential.

Charles Barkley is on ‘Zachille O’Neal’s’ side

Ahead of the heavyweight matchup, Barkley picked UConn for the win. The defending champs made his prediction come true with their consecutive title. That’s not saying Edey&Co. haven’t left him impressed. He called them a “tough” opponent for anyone.

Edey’s consistently good numbers have not protected him from criticism, though. Most attribute his dominant performance to his sheer size and others dub him the NCAA villain for the foul menace he presents. Chuck slammed the negative scrutiny he was being subjected to. “I think Zach Edey gets a bad rap. I’ve heard people criticizing him…He ain’t the reason they’re losing. He’s the reason they’re the No. 1 seed,” Barkley said while Shaq was naming Edey ‘Zachille O’Neal.’

Shaq and Chuck couldn’t miss the chance to meet Edey in person. Which is why Barkley made sure to personally commend him after the game. Hopefully, Zach will share what Barkley said to him soon.

READ MORE: Security Removed 7ft Shaquille O’Neal to Clear Path for Zach Edey & Co. In Footage from Purdue vs NC State