Charles Barkley had high hopes for two of his former teams, the Phoenix Suns and the Philadelphia 76ers, ahead of the first round in the playoffs. The Suns led by Kevin Durant and Co. got swept by the Minnesota Timberwolves, and the 76ers were on the brink of elimination as they were down 3-1 to the New York Knicks. Ahead of game 5 between the Sixers and the Knicks today, Barkley had some positive words for Joel Embiid. However, that was just an act that Barkley put in front of the camera. Deep inside, he had some fear for his Sixers, which got exposed by Shaquille O’Neal on live television. 

Barkley shared before game 5 on Inside the NBA, “I’m excited man. My Sixers. You know, I root for the Sixers and the Suns…”. Before Barkley could finish, Shaq chimed in, “Don’t do that Chuck. Don’t do that”. A confused Barkley replied, “What do you mean?”. 

Shaq revealed, “Before the camera was on, you said the Sixers are going to get ran off the building.” Barkley confirmed, “I’m worried. I think they are going to get ran off the building, but you know what, I’m going to keep the hope alive.” The Chuckster‘s fear was fair. After all, it is two of his most favorite teams. However, Shaq wanted him to express his true feelings alone in front of the camera. 

Shaq asked Barkley, “Are you with them or are you against them?”. The Sixers legend replied, “Well, I’m with them in spirit“. Kenny Smith chimed in, “We are not a spirt television show”. So finally, Barkley agreed that he is rooting for the Sixers before game 5. Looks like his prayers got the answer.

Tyrese Maxey keeps Charles Barkley’s ray of hope alive with a masterclass

Joel Embiid gave his all out today. The big man dropped a 19-point triple-double, but according to Barkley, this night belongs to Tyrese Maxey, who changed the game in the last minute of the fourth quarter. The Sixers were down 7 points entering the last minute, and Maxey hit a tough three-pointer over Knicks center Mitchell Robinson and also grabbed a foul. After a failed possession from the Knicks, he hit another three-pointer, leaving just 8 seconds on the clock. 

Barkley credited Maxey’s determination. He shared after the game, “This is all about Maxey. Listen, Tobias [Harris] played better, Kelly [Oubre Jr.] played better, but man, Mr. Maxey, man you were spectacular. You put this team on your back.” Barkley made sure he gave Maxey his flowers. The Sixers are now heading back home for game 6, let’s see if things can entertain Barkley once more! 

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