Charles Barkley was a magnificent player during his prime. The 59-year-old, due to exceptional performances was the recipient of the NBA MVP award in 1993, ahead of the likes of Michael Jordan, Karl Malone, Hakeem Olajuwon, etc.
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Having played and been successful in an era that was governed by Jordan, ‘Chuck’ is aware of just how prestigious a career Jordan had. Which in turn speaks volumes about “His Airness” superlative skill.
His competition, LeBron James has transcended the league and the manner in which basketball players are perceived due to his outstanding longevity and durability.
This would lead any avid supporter of the sport to believe that Jordan and James are unparalleled when it comes to their positions in the all-time hierarchy. Regardless of the order, you place them, the pair have cemented the status of first and second undoubtedly.
Or so one would think. Charles Barkley certainly doesn’t agree and he stated his case a while ago.
Also read: Charles Barkley Publicly Questions 6ft 2″ Ja Morant’s Leadership Skills
Charles Barkley comments on why LeBron James will never be in his ‘Top Five’!
It’s no secret that the vast amount of success that James has witnessed has contributed to him etching his name into the history of the sport, as disputably the greatest of all time.
A great many have regarded the ‘King’ as the greatest player to have graced the game. However, certain veterans don’t consider him a ‘Top Five’ player of all time in itself, let alone the greatest. This includes Barkley.
While appearing on the Dan Patrick show alongside Dan Patrick, Barkley aired his reasons as to why James will never penetrate into his hierarchy list.
Barkley said-
“People sensed that I said LeBron was not one of the greatest ever, first of all not even close to being true. What I said was my Top five is never gonna change. Michael, Oscar, Kareem, Bill Russell, and Wilt (Chamberlain). Nobody ever gonna get in my Top five, and I said LeBron is right behind Kobe and Tim Duncan in my opinion. If he wins a couple more championships, maybe even one, I might put him in that category, but right now on my list he’s number eight.”
Contrary to other opinions, Barkley’s insight revolves around what he had seen up to a certain point. However, the fact that he has his mind made up for that reason, will negate his opinion considering that he doesn’t factor in the different circumstances both players have experienced.
The LeBron James and Michael Jordan debate!
LeBron James and Michael Jordan will find themselves entangled in this debate eternally. The subject will be peripheral for as long as the pair draw breath.
There’s no right or wrong answer to this question, provided you do have valid arguments to back your comments.
At the end of the day, the opinion will always draw back to how much each individual resonates with either men’s style of play, accomplishments, and character.
