Charles Barkley is one of the 50 greatest players in NBA history.
That said, the 1993 MVP arguably had an even more impressive media career after his playing days.
There’s been a lot of talk about how TNT is likely to lose the NBA. rights after the 2024-25 season.
Despite the disappointing news, Barkley revealed (via Dan Le Batard Show) why he will stay with Turner Sports.
Barkley: “The most important thing to me is that my employees at Turner can keep their jobs for at least another year. That’s all I cared about.”
Le Batard: “How much money do you think you left on the table by making this decision to care for others?”
Barkley: “A minimum of $100 million.”
How Much Did Charles Barkley Lose By Returning To TNT?
“A minimum of $100 million. A minimum.”
Barkley explains why he chose to return to Turner Sports as a broadcast free agent.
“What matters most to me is that my employees at Turner can keep their jobs for another year.” pic.twitter.com/lGLZgg4nFZ
— Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz (@LeBatardShow) August 13, 2024
Many people reacted to this quote from Barkley, and one person who shared his opinion was NBA legend Carmelo Anthony (via his podcast 7pm in Brooklyn).
Anthony: “With Barkley, it’s like my house. It’s my house. I don’t want to leave it, I built it. We built it… It’s real shit what he did. I know the numbers that are thrown at Barkley. I know the conversations that are happening about Barkley in this world. Those numbers are real.”
Barkley played 16 seasons in the NBA for the Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns and Houston Rockets.
The Hall of Famer recorded career averages of 22.1 points, 11.7 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.5 steals per game while shooting 54.1 percent from the field.
He retired after the 1999-2000 season.
