Since an athlete’s career is short-lived, they often find something exciting to do after retirement. Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley are the biggest examples of having multiple successful careers. After dominating the league till where they were there to now entertaining millions on TV, Shaq and Chuck have managed two careers. However, this is not as simple as one would imagine from the outside.

Recently, Barkley talked about the tight schedule that a TV personality operates on. He also discussed an interesting story where the late great Kobe Bryant, contrary to his personality, was too lazy to commit to a TV gig.

Charles Barkley talks about the time when Kobe Bryant acted too lazy for a job

Chuck is a part of the popular show NBA on TNT. The show has an illustrious panel with Shaq, Chuck, Kenny Smith and Ernie Johnson with several guests making regular appearances. It is one of the best-performing shows on TV and revolves around the NBA. Apart from the expert insights from the legends of the game, the banter between Chuck and Shaq is a highlight of the show.

The hit show boasts massive success via broadcasting as well as an impressive fan base on social media platforms. Now imagine putting one of the most serious individuals in the history of the game into that setup.

Barkley recently revealed on the New Heights podcast that Kobe was being considered to be made a part of the show. Although the Black Mamba would have been the best person to give his opinion on the game, strategies, strengths and weaknesses, picturing Kobe inside a fun setup like that is slightly difficult.

Sir Charles detailed that when Bean was being considered for the job, he was told that he’ll have to do a press run to promote the show. He instantly refused to do any such thing after which Chuck had to explain to him, “That’s part of the gig.”

The veteran said, “He got fired quick,” – because of the issues he had with the format.

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The Los Angeles Lakers legend wanted to just make an appearance when the show was being recorded. However, this could not be allowed even for Kobe because they needed the press footage and promotions. Barkley remembered telling Kobe, “it’s not that simple,” – as everything else along with the show counts as part of the job.

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What is your take on Kobe’s refusal to participate on the show? Do you agree with Chuck? Let us know in the comments below!