“Thank You Auburn”: Former NBA Star Charles Barkley Appreciates His Alma Mater for a Skinny Statue

Charles Barkley has been an icon for the basketball world ever since he stepped onto the court. He is also celebrated in various forms for his contributions as a legendary hooper. Whether you talk about getting inducted into the Hall of Fame or immortalized through statues, he has seen it all.

In the same light, Sir Charles never forgets to show his gratitude. More specifically, he appreciates one thing about his statue at his alma mater Auburn University, Alabama.

Charles talks about his statue

Recently, the 11-time NBA All-Star Charles was present on the sidelines of the Neville Arena. Apparently, he had come there to show support for his former college team the Auburn Tigers. It was an epic match as the Tigers stood against their Iron Bowl arch enemies the Alabama Crimson Tides. While talking to the commentators in the side booth, the statue made its way into the conversation. And of course, the greatest rebounders of all time had to give a humorous punch line. He said, “I wanna thank you Auburn for making my statue skinny.”

Continuing on the same path, he showed some more appreciation. “Shout out to Jan Smith and Sonny Smith, that was the most important part.” The commentator asked him, “Well there was a round mound of rebound and that’s half round?” To this, Barkley responded, “No I was round mound here at college too. But the statue is from a few years back. I told them not to make my statue fat.”

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Clearly, Charles Barkley is so comfortable accepting his nickname. And why not? Auburn crafted that statue to represent what Charles Barkley meant to them.

Charles Barkley statue at Neville Arena

Charles Barkley to date is an influential voice in the basketball world. His record in three years with Auburn University is also note-worthy. He played 84 games as a part of the Tigers roster. Further, with an average of 14.1 points and 9.6 rebounds, he made a force to reckon with on the hardwood. Additionally, he has collected accolades like SEC Player of the Year (1984) and SEC Tournament MVP (1984.) Auburn retired his jersey No. 34 back in 2001. However, the two-time Olympic gold medalist unveiled his statue in November 2017.

Undeniably, Charles Barkley has been an integral part of the basketball world. With two statues standing today on the very fields he practiced and a long list of honors, Sir Charles is definitely an icon to know. We are always excited to learn where we can spot him next and surely his fans are too.

What are your thoughts on Chuck’s statue? Tell us in the comments.

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