While NBA Legend Stays Mum on “Clown” Slander, ESPN Veteran Sings Praises of Charles Barkley’s Endless Hate Toward 77YO Sport Personality

On-court and off-court, clashes and fiery exchanges are part of the game. Charles Barkley recently fired shots towards a fellow NBA analyst and shortly after, received praise from a veteran ESPN presenter. Paul Finebaum applauded Chuck for fearlessly speaking his mind and “doing what all of us have been wanting to do.” However, while he showers Barkley with admiration, the 1992-93 MVP has also received retaliation from the offended party.

Let’s dig a little deep into the war of words and see how this potential beef is shaping up.

Veteran praise for an “idiotic” criticism

Paul Finebaum has been a sports journalist and writer for over 40 years! He’s one of the few remaining veterans at ESPN following a brutal week of firings.

During his appearance on The Marchand and Ourand Sports Media Podcast, Paul Finebaum didn’t hold back in his appreciation for Charles Barkley’s outspoken nature. Finebaum has followed Barkley’s journey since his high school days and acknowledges his immense impact both on and off the court. He said, “I covered this individual when he was in high school, that’s how long I’ve known Charles Barkley.”

Now as a host of TNT’s Inside the NBA, Chuck has brought many iconic and eye-opening moments to basketball fans. Throughout his career, Barkley has remained outspoken on matters of personal and public interest. One notable highlight from the previous week is Barkley’s decision to revise his will, generously donating $5 million to his beloved Auburn University.

However, it is Barkley’s newest comment aimed at Skip Bayless that earned Finebaum’s utmost respect. Finebaum revealed that Barkley did what many have secretly desired for the past 25 years.

He explained, “He did what all of us have been wanting to do for at least the last 25 years, that is to call Skip Bayless an Idiot.”

Well, you didn’t think that Skip is going to remain silent on this, did you? Shots have been fired and now shots have been returned.

Charles Barkley: Silence amidst the “Clown” slander

The exchange originated on NBA on TNT when Barkley humorously remarked about working with an “idiot” following Shannon Sharpe’s departure from “Undisputed”. Chuck was basically describing why he could never do what Sharpe did and work with an “idiot.”

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In response, Bayless took to Twitter, dismissing Charles Barkley with the “clown” label. However, he didn’t specifically call out Barkley, but he used the same reference technique. Bayless said, “Still chuckling over a clown calling me an idiot.”

This tweet really stirred the pot as everyone started to wait for a witty response from Charles. However, Barkley has chosen not to engage yet, maintaining an unheard-of, dignified, silence.

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Charles Barkley’s unwavering and unfiltered commentary has garnered both admiration and criticism over the years. Paul Finebaum, a seasoned ESPN veteran, wholeheartedly applauds Barkley. Yet, Barkley’s silence in the face of Bayless’ “clown” comment reveals a composed and mature approach.

Or perhaps, Barkley is waiting for the right moment to drop the hammer on Skip? What do you think?