As Ja Morant and Zion Williamson Get Dragged Into Mud, “Shocked” Charles Barkley’s Stinging Reality Shows Them Hints of Love

Published 05/25/2023, 12:38 PM EDT

The season has not been good for two of the league’s finest young talents. Zion Williamson and Ja Morant have time and again found their way into the eye of the tornado. While Morant has been suspended twice for flashing firearms, Williamson’s fitness has been the reason behind his criticism. As we approach the end of the season, Charles Barkley decided to close his season at The Steam Room podcast with a few words of advice for the two stars.

Barkley stood by his old advice for Williamson and Morant, although this time, he was more compassionate, almost like an elder brother. Chuck is known for being blunt with his opinion, but given the circumstances, Barkley decided to take a more holistic approach.

Charles Barkley urges the two young stars to become better

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The team of Chuck and Ernie Johnson closed in season 4 of their podcast, The Steam Room. Before they rolled down the curtains on the season, the 60-year-old had some important advice for the youngsters. Starting with the recent controversy of the Memphis Grizzlies star, Chuck said that Morant needs to be better. He quoted Adam Silver and said that “I’m shocked” over the string of mistakes that the 23-year-old Memphis star has made. The 11x NBA All-Star said, “Ja, man, you gotta grow up.” He added that Morant needs to understand the value of his image and the responsibility he has as a star athlete.

Later in the podcast, Chuck’s words of advice for the New Orleans Pelicans star was to get in shape. He even detailed the compensation that he used to receive as compared to what Williamson can make. Barkley said, “I got in shape for $2 million, and Zion, you’re gonna make another $500 million. All you gotta do is get in shape.” As per the 1993 NBA MVP, this summer is going to be the most crucial time for these two athletes.

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He said that their upcoming season will entirely depend upon how they utilize their time during the break.

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The NBA veteran said that the two youngsters, combined, could possibly make around a billion dollars. The only way that can happen is if they “do the right thing.” Despite all the controversy and criticism, Barkley sounded hopeful for their future, starting with the very next season. Even his dose of reality check with “get your crap together,” was coupled with a hint of love and genuine concern for the future superstars.

Watch This Story: 10 times Chuck roasted NBA stars.

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Written by:

Prateek Singh is an NBA writer for EssentiallySports, known for his insightful coverage of the league. With a deep passion for basketball fueled by the late Kobe Bryant's championship runs, Prateek has built his writing career on astute analysis and a firm understanding of the game. His transparent reporting and dedication to providing quality content have earned him credibility and respect among readers and industry professionals alike.

Edited by:

Jayant Chhabra

As Ja Morant and Zion Williamson Get Dragged Into Mud, “Shocked” Charles Barkley’s Stinging Reality Shows Them Hints of Love

Charles Barkley urges the two young stars to become better

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