In today’s era, athletes have responsibilities that surpass their professional obligations. With the cameras following their every move, it has almost become their duty to be a positive beacon for the coming generation. Likewise, one wrong move could become costly for their careers. The children of today look up to their sporting heroes following their every move. However, one NBA legend wasn’t a fan of this practice. And even Michael Jordan, a hero for millions across the globe agreed with him.

There was no NBA athlete like Charles Barkley. The Phoenix Suns legend walked unapologetically, candid in his every move. Sir Charles carried no filter in what he believed. His principles stayed with speaking the truth as it comes. Much like his persona on the court, Barkley spoke the words many players feared. One of his most talked about displays was in Nike’s 1993 role model advertisement.

Famously, Barkley claimed h was no role model for the kids. His actions were met by the masses with mixed reactions. However, several NBA legend made knew exactly what he was talking about. One of them being His Airness himself.

Michael Jordan understood Barkley’s not a role model comments

Jordan was unarguably the most famous athlete on the planet. An aura compared to Jesus, the six-time NBA champion was a global icon. Likewise, everyone wanted to be like Mike. His magic inspired kids all over the world. They tried to follow his every move. However, when Barkley’s advertisement came out, Jordan realized the real truth in his eyes.

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Notably, Barkley was of the opinion kids need to look up to someone they know. While there was no problem in being their heroes, the NBA on TNT analyst didn’t want them to follow in his footsteps. Even years after the controversial commercial, Barkley didn’t budge on his views. And even the heavily considered greatest player of all time agreed with him.

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Charles Barkley even had Michael Jordan on his side. During his interview with GQ, MJ spoke about his stand and said he agreed with his friend.

He said: “When he came out and said, “I’m not a role model.” I realized we’re really not. We assume that responsibility because of the respect we’re given. But we can’t tell these kids they can be us. When he first came out with that, I was like, “Wow, he’s right.” Because your parents are your role models, or your grandparents or your aunt.”

In today’s generation, athletes have used their platform to successfully change the world. NBA players such as LeBron James and Stephen Curry aren’t afraid to stand up for social issues and speak from the heart. However, it can’t become an obligation for any athlete to follow the similar footsteps. Every athlete carries a story that the world might not know about. And to think everyone can achieve what Michael Jordan did might just be unrealistic.

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As inspirations, athletes may be the prime specimens. However, for role models and learning the right values, the people close might be the MJs. Where do you stand on Charles Barkley’s bold stance? Let us know your views in the comments below.