Former best friends Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan haven’t spoken to each other for more than a decade. Back in the 90s, their friendship was often the talk of the town as they could be seen spending a lot of time together. In fact, it was quite evident to see on the court as well how close they were. However, that irked the Chuckster’s former teammate, Rick Mahorn. The 65-year-old was a guest on The Cedric Maxwell Podcast recently and opened up about how Barkley refused to listen to him and hit MJ on the court.

During the conversation, both Mahorn and Cedric Maxwell spoke about the basketball rivalry of the 80s. While they mentioned the great friendship they still have, the two stated how their on-court clashes were more intense back in those days. During the game, they would forget their friends and focus on the battle. However, Mahorn mentioned a few players who didn’t follow the same rule, including Barkley.

As recalled by Mahorn, Barkley did not hit Jordan during his Chicago Bulls games, as they were friends and he respected the 6x champion. “I told Barkley, I said, “All right next thing you got to hit Michael Jordan.’ ‘No that’s my friend.'(Barkley’s reply).” Mahorn proceeded to show them the reaction he had to the Chuckster’s statement and it left the hosts in splits.

“Everytime Charles didn’t f**k him up, we lost. In the playoffs, twice,” the former Detroit Pistons star said. Mahorn then recalled the 1993 NBA Finals where Barkley’s Phoenix Suns faced off against MJ’s Bulls. As they’re not on talking terms anymore, Mahorn told Barkley, “You know what, you should have hit that mf back then…. Don’t take s**t personal. This is what we do for a living. I don’t like that buddy-buddy s**t.”

Mahorn pointed out that the ex-Philadelphia 76ers star’s friendly gesture didn’t prove helpful, given that the duo is currently not on speaking terms. He also mentioned how different the rivalry that existed in the 80s was.

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Rick Mahorn talks about NBA friendship

The 1980s in the NBA showcased some electrifying rivalries that captivated fans. While each player respected their opponents, they battled equally hard to beat them. Mercy wasn’t a word they used on the court.

Speaking of his playing days, Mahorn highlighted, “As long as it doesn’t translate on the court where you’re playing brother-in-law ball, if he comes in there I mean you ain’t gonna hit your friend then I’mma hit your friend and then I’mma hit your a** in practice the next day.”

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As highlighted in the podcast, the dynamic among current NBA players paints a different picture. They show smoother transitions, fostering strong camaraderie not just off the court but while competing on it as well. What are your thoughts on Mahorn’s comments on the on-court battles in today’s NBA? Let us know below.

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