Charles Barkley is a former professional basketball player and current sports analyst, renowned for his dynamic presence both on and off the court. Born on February 20, 1963, in Leeds, Alabama, Barkley played 16 seasons in the NBA, primarily as a power forward. Standing 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 252 pounds, he was known for his exceptional scoring, rebounding, and physical style of play.
Throughout his illustrious career, Barkley earned numerous accolades, including being named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player in 1993. He was selected to 11 All-NBA teams and secured two Olympic gold medals with the U.S. national basketball team. In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Barkley was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006.
Transitioning to a career in sports broadcasting after retiring from professional basketball, Barkley has been a prominent analyst for Turner Network Television (TNT) since 2000. He is best known for his role on the post-game show “Inside the NBA,” where his candid commentary and engaging personality have earned him multiple Sports Emmy Awards for “Outstanding Studio Analyst.”
Beyond his broadcasting work, Barkley has ventured into other television projects. In 2017, he hosted “American Race,” a six-episode series on TNT that explored issues of race, religion, and sexuality in America. More recently, in 2023, Barkley co-hosted “King Charles” alongside Gayle King on CNN, a news discussion program that aired on Wednesdays at 10 PM.
In March 2025, during CBS’s coverage of the NCAA Tournament, Barkley humorously admitted to not paying attention to the first half of the game between Illinois and Xavier, revealing he had been watching a different matchup. This candid moment delighted his colleagues and viewers alike, highlighting his authentic and relatable persona.
Barkley’s influence extends beyond sports; he has been involved in various philanthropic efforts and is known for his candid opinions on societal issues. His legacy as a basketball legend and media personality continues to impact audiences worldwide.