In recent seasons, the NBA has witnessed a steady increase in its viewership numbers. According to Neilsen, NBA viewership across ESPN and ABC has increased by 16% compared to last season. However, the current viewership doesn’t even come close to its heydays in the 1990s. Buoyed by the great Michael Jordan and his Chicago Bulls team, the NBA reached unprecedented levels of popularity. Apart from Jordan, the charisma and on-court brilliance of Charles Barkley also played a pivotal role in the NBA’s growing popularity in the 90s.
These two individuals have forged careers that few can rival, and choosing between them can be an arduous task. However, according to current NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, there’s a clear winner between the two NBA legends.
Giannis picks Jordan over Charles Barkley
In a recent interview, Giannis Antetokounmpo was posed a question about which NBA legend he would prefer to play an NBA Christmas game alongside. Despite harboring respect for Charles Barkley, he picked Michael Jordan. He said, “First of all, I love Charles Barkley. He’s one of the greatest players to ever play this game. But, I have to pick Michael Jordan.”
Charles Barkley is one of the greatest NBA players of all time. However, he couldn’t win an NBA championship, and the reason is Michael Jordan and his iconic Chicago Bulls team. Jordan constantly thwarted his efforts to win the coveted Larry O’Brien trophy in the 1990s. Despite their on-court rivalry, the two shared a great equation off the court until recently.
After underwhelming in his last few seasons, Barkley decided to hang up his shoes in 2000. In 2006, Charles Barkley was honored for his profound impact on the NBA by being inducted into the prestigious Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Post retirement, Barkley has found his calling, as he has become one of the most beloved NBA analysts.
Charles Barkley: A beloved TV personality
Following his retirement from the NBA, Charles Barkley transitioned into a successful career as a basketball analyst and television personality. Renowned for his candid and outspoken style, Barkley became a staple on TNT’s “Inside the NBA” alongside Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal. His witty and unfiltered commentary earned him acclaim, and he became a beloved figure in the sports broadcasting world.
Barkley’s post-NBA career also included ventures into acting and business. Despite not winning an NBA championship during his playing days, Barkley’s impact on and off the court, coupled with his entertaining presence in the media, solidified his status as one of basketball’s enduring and influential figures.
