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Imago

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One of the most storied rivalries in NBA history was also one of the most unexpected. For years, the NBA was home to one of the most feel-good stories in sports. That was the friendship between Michael Jordan and the Phoenix Suns/Philadelphia 76ers’ Charles Barkley. Whether it was golfing or partying, the two legends were often in each other’s company. The friendship was so close that people even accused the duo of tampering during the NBA Finals.

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But, alas, it wasn’t to be. Eventually, differences and egos clashed, and the two went their separate ways. However, it has given one particular LeBron James Critic a golden opportunity.

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Would Michael Jordan be a terrible debater?

Over a 20-year career, Skip Bayless has developed a reputation for being outrageous. Whether it is outlandish takes or his vehement hatred of Bron, Bayless has become a constant voice in the NBA world. Or, more accurately, a constant medium of jokes. However, even with all of his hysterics, the man drew audiences. For weeks on end, Undisputed?hosted by Skip and NFL veteran, Shannon Sharpe was the number one sports program.

But, along with the hatred for all things James, Bayless also hosts an ardent love for Michael Jordan.

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Therefore, Skip bashing Jordan was up there among the most unexpected things to happen in sports. But, as they say, never say never. The day finally arrived.

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After Sharpe’s departure,?Undisputed?has been on hiatus. In the meantime, the almost 50-year veteran has taken to podcasting. The Skip Bayless?show, however, saw a historic feat. The titular man was critical of his idol, six-time champion with the Chicago Bulls, His Airness.

I believe Michael Jordan would be a terrible debater because…He played basketball far better than he was able to demonstrate knowing basketball…Proved to be the worst GM, Team-Builder in the history of the NBA.”?

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While the callout from his longtime devotee Skip was shocking, is there more to the tale?

Dig at Jordan or bait for Charles?

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Over the years, Skip Bayless has developed a long line of enemies. Most notable, among them, is Sir Charles Barkley. Often, the Round Mound of Rebound can be seen explicitly calling out the TV personality. And, at various points in time, Bayless has responded to Chuck’s harsh comments.

Read More: ?Can?t Watch That Punk A** Skip Bayless?: Slamming the Attention Towards LeBron James, Charles Barkley Reignites Age-Old Hatred

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Recently, Skip made a shocking claim of Barkley’s annihilation. However, to some, it was a ridiculous marketing strategy for the re-launch of the?Undisputed?show. While Charles hasn’t confirmed his involvement as a co-host, are Skip’s comments a hint towards the same?

After all, the reason for dissension between the Chuckster and Mike was Barkley’s open criticism of Jordan’s tenure as the owner and GM of the Charlotte Hornets.

Perhaps, Skip echoing those same sentiments is a further ploy at luring Charles.

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Where the eventual pieces fall, only time will tell. Would you like to see Skip Bayless and Charles Barkley team up? Let us know in the comments below.

Watch This Story: Silent On “Annihilation” Threats, Charles Barkley’s 60-Seconds Long Emotional Clip Resurfaces

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Priyanshu

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Priyanshu is an NBA beat Writer at EssentiallySports, with a healthy command over the technical aspects of the sport. Priyanshu has creatively covered the often entertaining interactions between legends Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley along with in-depth analysis of the games. He was at the forefront of the 2023 Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame ceremony, covering each and every aspect of the historic night in Springfield, Massachusetts. Furthermore, his article on Shaq and the UFC garnered close to a million pageviews. Moving away from the world of sports, Priyanshu is also an avid gamer, who can display other-worldly skills on NBA 2K.

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Aakash Nair

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