James Harden, Clyde Drexler, Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook. These are some of the greatest NBA players to never win a ring. However, a name that stands head-and-shoulders above them is Charles Barkley. One of the greatest Power Forwards ever, Chuck was a truly dominant player during his time in the game. And his post-basketball career has been just as exciting. While stars struggle to maintain relevance and an identity post-basketball, Charles has become the best sports personality on the air.

Barkley’s continuous banter with Shaquille O’Neal is a constant source of amusement for basketball fans. But it isn’t without its controversies, and neither was his time as a Philadelphia 76er.

Charles Barkley clears the air over Philly fans’ treatment of him

Barkley’s NBA career is truly known for his stints with the Philadelphia 76ers and the Phoenix Suns. However, one of those markets was much harsher than the other. Even with his impeccably good run with them, there have been multiple reports about fans revolting against the Chuckster.

Recently, Chuck made a surprise appearance at the Sports Broadcasting Camp organized by Play by Play Sports. As a guest speaker, Charles recounted his time with the Philadelphia fanbase and their treatment.

However, Barkley had nothing but positive remarks about the city, “Never got dissed...They know I gave maximum effort.”?He admitted the harshness of the Philadelphia faithful, “If you don’t play here, they gonna get you,” and cleared the air on their treatment of him, “In the 8 years I was here and even when I came back, they treated me great.”?He also admitted how it was the front office that messed up his playing career in the city of brotherly love, “It was the 6ers that messed my time up here.”?

Barkley claimed that the fans understood that sentiment and that is why they were always fair to him. “The fans here know that the sixers screwed up. I didn’t. But, like I said, I have experienced loyalty in this city.”?

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The time in particular that caused the most controversy was 1991. After Magic Johnson was forced to retire due to contracting HIV, Chuck’s move left a sour taste in fans’ mouths.

The jersey change incident

After Magic Johnson’s cruel end to a legendary career, fans and players alike were quick to show their support. As messages of love poured in for the Lakers legend, Charles Barkley had a heartwarming idea in mind.

Having sported the number 34 for his entire career up to that point, Barkley decided to switch his number to 32 in reverence to Magic. However, the number had previously been retired by the Sixers in honor of Hall-of-Famer Billy Cunningham.

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The move was not popular among the fans. But Chuck stood by his decision. Ultimately, the true extent of the malice never materialized owing to Barkley’s trade to the Phoenix Suns. In retrospect, Barkley seems content with his time as a Sixer, except for the front-office decisions.

It is great to see the relationship between the player and fanbase grow strong. As Chuck continues to be a constant highlight, it’s no wonder that more fans will join the Philly squadron.