“I Just Think That Is Impossible”: Charles Barkley is Furious With the NBA Restarting in Orlando

The grand return of the NBA is all fixed. The league has set a tentative return date and the New Orleans Pelicans take on the Utah Jazz to kick start the comeback. While the excitement seems to be kicking in for almost every avid NBA fan, there remains a major question in the minds of the people. Is the league taking a major risk by trying to finish the current season?

Over the past few weeks, we have seen plenty of news regarding the safety measures the league is striving to provide. There came the news about the fitness ring that meticulously track every possible metric that contributes toward catching the coronavirus. 

Moreover, the NBA will be spending a ridiculous amount of money each day. This comes as a result of aiming to maintain hygiene and provide a luxurious space for the athletes. It is a huge risk that both the players and the athletes are engaging themselves in. 

While a few athletes have opted out of playing in the bubble due to various concerns, the organizations have voted a strong “yes” towards the resumption of the league. Many analysts and critics remain skeptical about the league’s return. The views and comments come mainly based on the fact that a large group of athletes and staff would be traveling to Florida to participate in the restart. 

Charles Barkley states his views on NBA returning in Florida

Charles Barkley is often an outspoken personality. The NBA legend never refrains from sharing his opinion even if it ends up bad for him. In a recent episode of The Steam Room podcast titled ‘Book by its Cover’, Barkley was asked by Ernie Johnson Jr. if he believes the league would get done without facing any hindrances. 

When Chuck began to initiate his reply, one could sense the dullness in the tone of the Hall of Famer. Here is what the 57-year-old had to say about the NBA’s return at the end of this month. “I don’t think we got any chance of finishing this thing,” Barkley said, talking about the possibility of the season finishing without facing any roadblocks. 

“That hurts because I know a lot of people that would lose their jobs and would be affected going forward. The way this thing is spiking and obviously Florida is the worst spot in the world right now and we are taking 22 NBA teams to the hotspot. We’re taking the WNBA, MLS soccer is going on down there.”

“I just don’t see how we can go three months – the chances of us going three months and not having an outbreak – I just think that is impossible,” Barkley expressed. Following his statement, Ernie Johnson stepped in and shared a similar school of thought as well. 

Chuck has certainly put forth valid concerns about the NBA restarting in Florida. Is it a hurried decision by the league to complete the season? Or is Adam Silver with the support of his colleagues doing the right thing?