Charles Barkley’s analysis on Inside the NBA has got him four honorable Emmy Awards and a few mentions. However, it has also taken a hit on his relationship with a few NBA superstars, due to his harsh and sharp criticisms. One such example would be his current situation with Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant, who was called out for his lack of leadership by Barkley. Well, it’s been quite some time since we heard about where the two now stand. So here is Barkley, with a few words about Kevin Durant, who conveyed it through a comparison with Michael Jordan. 

Barkley was questioned if he was on good terms with Durant currently. The Philadelphia 76ers legend replied, “Oh I don’t know, and I don’t worry about it”. He added, “Dude, I was best friends with Michael Jordan. He doesn’t speak to me because I said he was bad at his job. You think I’m gonna worry about what KD says?” Clearly, The Chuckster is least bothered. 

However, he has some respect for KD, for who he is. Barkley said, “Durant is a great player, and he’s a great person, but he’s gotta do a better job in leadership, plain and simple. And if he takes that personally, that’s on him.” One thing is clear. Barkley doesn’t mind if he is in someone’s bad books. He is going to say what he wants to say. 

Ever since Barkley’s remarks, Durant has mostly avoided the Hall of Famer on most occasions. At times, he has also used ‘X’ as a medium to tweet about his beef with Barkley. He had even brushed off the comment saying it was just a filler segment. On the other hand, Michael Jordan completely disappeared from the Chuckster’s life. 

Was Michael Jordan’s ego the reason for ending his friendship with Barkley? 

Charles Barkley believes so! According to the 1993 MVP, he was just criticizing his best friend. Barkley made a fair point, “I have zero credibility if I criticize other people in the same boat and not criticize my best friend“. If you are wondering what the criticism is about, it is Jordan’s ownership stint with the Charlotte Hornets. 

Barkley shared in an interview for 60 Minutes, “You can’t be great at something, like… that doesn’t give you the right to be a jerk”. In his time with the Hornets as an owner, Jordan made it to the playoffs only two seasons. Sadly, they were first-round exits both times. When Barkley pointed out the flaws, Jordan had a difference in opinion. 

This is where the years of friendship between the two ended. Barkley and KD are not friends, but the two have great respect for each other. However, let’s hope Chuckster’s criticism doesn’t take a hit on the respect he has for KD, and vice versa.

Stay tuned for more such updates, and to follow what Shaq’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato had to say about the marketing genius, watch this video: