Charles Barkley’s Shocking Retirement Announcement Leaves Sports World Devastated
Sports Entertainment
The sports world does not want Charles Barkley to leave.
Social media was abuzz after the legendary TV commentator announced on NBA TV Friday night after Game 4 of the Finals that he would retire from the airwaves.
Barkley, who has been a broadcast icon since joining “NBA on TNT” shortly after his retirement from the NBA in 2000, said he will step away from the big screen after the 2024-25 NBA season.
“I made the decision myself that no matter what happens next year will be my last year on television,” Barkley said.
“Charles Barkley, one of the greatest TV personalities we’ve ever seen, is retiring next year,” former NFL quarterback and ESPN personality Robert Griffin III wrote on X.
“This is much sadder than it should be,” the user wrote in the replies.
“National Treasure,” wrote another.
“He will always be my favorite. He keeps it real, makes us laugh, and never fails to exude pure class. Chuck is the best,” shared one user X.
Another former QB, Chase Daniel, shared the sentiment.
“No CHUCK!!” He wrote.
“No one in any sport was better in the studio than Barkley. Honest. Funny. Simply fantastic”, wrote Marc Malusis from PIX 11.
The decision comes as TNT parent Warner Bros. Discovery, is on the verge of losing its NBA rights, leaving Barkley’s future up in the air.
“I’m not going to another network, but I’m going to pass the baton to Jamal Crawford or Vince Carter or you, Steve [Smith],” Barkley said Friday.
Before his retirement announcement, Barkley would become one of the most sought-after free agents in sports media.
“I just want to thank my NBA family,” Barkley added. “You guys have been great to me. My heart is full of joy and gratitude.”
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