Many players over the years have expressed displeasure over Charles Barkley’s harsh criticism. The list includes his former best friend Michael Jordan and even current co-host Shaquille O’Neal. The Lakers legend admitted it was difficult during his playing days to listen to analysts who point out flaws in the game. Similarly, Draymond Green has had issues with the 76ers legend. But for his broadcasting career success, the Warriors star remembers one helping moment from Sir Charles.
“When I first started, you know, we’re on the break, and Chuck’s asking me like, ‘Hey, so what are your thoughts on NIL?’ And I tell him my thoughts on NIL. We come back from the break, start talking, and Chuck goes, you know, ‘Draymond has some thoughts on NIL’ and, like, just threw me a lob, and I go on it.” During his recent episode with Ernie Johnson, the 4x NBA champion spoke highly about his TNT colleagues. To people who don’t know, Green signed a deal with Turner Sports back in 2022 in a first-of-its-kind deal.
Before that, he had made a few guest appearances, but three years ago, he made it official. His unique arrangements meant the 35-year-old making appearances on TNT’s Inside the NBA, among additional content initiatives throughout the Turner Sports. That’s why the Michigan native credited Inside Crew for helping him make a smoother transition. But the journey had its hiccups, as Draymond Green explained during his heartfelt post about Charles Barkley.
“You all know where our journey started. Our journey did not start in a great place. Chuck used to sit on TV and say he was gonna punch me in my face. He called me ‘Mr. Triple Single.’ He’s had his fair share of jabs, and I’ve had my fair share of jabs as well.” Last year, when Chuck announced his retirement, the 2017 DPOY made sure to give flowers. “Nonetheless, I absolutely love that brother, and he is incredible. He is amazing. And if he retires, what a sad day for NBA basketball…”
Previous instances of Charles Barkley throwing jabs at Green
Chuckster’s beef with the Warriors star was at its peak as he expressed, “punch him in the face so bad.” They reconciled in 2018, but once again in 2020, the TNT analyst said, “Draymond don’t talk as much since he averaging that triple-single.” At the time, Draymond Green’s stat line was 8 points, 6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists.
Feb 16, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; TNT broadcaster Shaquille O’Neal (left) and Charles Barkley talk during the 2013 NBA All-Star slam dunk contest at the Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
The next instance was when Charles Barkley was also not on board with Draymond Green’s antics from two years ago. He received suspension twice in the span of a few weeks. First was choking Rudy Gobert and then the Jusuf Nurkic punch. The 76ers legend condemned it, “You think punching a guy in the face is part of the game?” But Shaquille O’Neal defended Green over Barkley’s comments.
As Green stated, these issues are behind them as they continue to forge their bond via broadcasting career. The relationship is so strong now that all the cracks have been sealed, and Chuck has been forthcoming with helping out the 4x NBA champion for life beyond hardwood.
The post “Threw Me a Lob”: Draymond Green Reveals How Charles Barkley Set Him Up for Success Beyond Basketball appeared first on EssentiallySports.
