Legendary NCAA coach John Thompson played a pivotal role in shaping many NBA stars’ careers, including Charles Barkley. The Chuckster was anticipated to be a key player for Team USA in the 1984 Olympics. Despite such heavy expectations, the Philadelphia 76ers legend was cut from the team to everyone’s surprise. A part of the selection committee was none other than Thompson, who was initially blamed for not selecting Barkley. Nonetheless, the 1993 NBA MVP considers Thompson to be “one of the best people he ever met.“

Let’s not forget that Barkley holds a tight ego. Especially during his career in the NBA, the Round Mound of Rebound was famous for it. However, when it comes to Thompson, the 76ers legend manages to ignore the 1984 disrespect. 

John Thompson was a big fan of Charles Barkley

Thompson spent most of his years, 27 seasons to be precise, as the head coach of the Georgetown Hoyas. He won the 1984 NCAA championship and also got the ‘Coach of the Year’ honor thrice in his career. The late legend coached NBA legends like Patrick Ewing, Alonzo Mourning, Allen Iverson, Dikembe Mutombo, and more. His excellence in finding talents led him to make it to the Olympic selection committee in 1984. 

However, he faced a slight backlash for not roping in Barkley to the team. Later it was found out that legendary head coach Bobby Knight was the reason behind it, who was disinterested in Barkley. Although that sounds disrespectful, Barkley was absolutely fine with it.

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During the latest episode of ‘The Steam Room‘, Chuck shared, “He[Knight] cut me from the Olympic team. I should have made the team… I said, ‘Okay, it’s all good’…for some reason, he didn’t like me.”

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Barkley further added, “John Thompson, he was influential after the Olympics. He called me…and said I deserved to make the team. He said he thought I was the second-best player there, which I think was too…Rest in peace John Thompson, one of the best people I ever met.” 

Thompson’s sudden demise in 2020 was heartbreaking for many. The NBA buffs were surprised to see a statement from Michael Jordan, who has remained mostly silent ever since his retirement.

John Thompson’s impact on NBA icons

The Chicago Bulls icon shared, “He[Thompson] had such a profound impact on his players and was a father figure to so many of them”. In addition, Lakers legend Shaquille O’Neal and Charles Barkley mourned Thompson’s death on NBA on TNT three years ago. Sixers legend Allen Iverson shared on his Twitter, “Thanks for saving my life coach,” which shows the life-changing impact of the first African-American head coach to win a major collegiate championship in basketball. 

AI further added, “I would give anything just for one more phone call from you only to hear you say, “Hey MF”, then we would talk about everything except basketball…….”

Thompson was a godfather for many and his demise had a devastating effect on several NBA superstars. What are your thoughts on the above story from Barkley? Share your take in the comments below. 

“Hoping That I Made You Proud”: Allen Iverson Pens Emotional Message to Former Coach John Thompson