Remember the time Chuck dished out sharp criticism of Michael Jordan’s management skills with the Charlotte Hornets? That saw a rift between the two. But that hasn’t stopped Chuck from doing what he does, which is being brutally honest. Charles Barkley has always been the same, and that doesn’t change even when it comes to his friends. But he is also a good friend who always defends his close ones when he needs to. Just recently, as one of Chuck’s old buddies found himself amid new drama, the 76ers legend was quick to take a stand for his friend, even if it meant breaking his own rule.
The NBA analyst has a deep love for football and is close to many coaches and analysts. He is also a good friend of North Carolina coach Bill Belichick. Reportedly, the two have been friends since the 1990s. As those following the NFL legend might know, the head coach is currently involved in a controversy between his girlfriend and CBS following a contentious interview. While Chuck didn’t defend or criticize his friend, he did issue a warning.
He even said he might personally call to check in on him. “This is a very slippery subject for me because Bill’s one of my really good friends. I don’t- I’m not sure what’s going on. He’s been a great friend for me for a long time. We’ve been friends since he coached for Browns. I think he got to be very careful right now this is starting to be on a very slippery slope. He’s the greatest football coach ever for him and Nick Saban for college. From what I’m hearing it’s starting to be a very slippery slope and I never talk about people’s personal relationship that’s another rule I got but I will admit I’m a little concerned with some of the stuff that’s going on,” Chuck said.
Charles Barkley’s outspoken nature is a defining characteristic of his broadcasting career. He’s never shied away from expressing his opinions, even when they’re controversial or directed at friends. This willingness to speak his mind, regardless of the consequences, has made him a beloved and sometimes polarizing figure in sports media.
So this is new, especially coming from Chuck. Barkley says he never comments on anyone’s personal life, especially when Dan Patrick urged him to speak more on the topic. “Listen man I have very strict rules on things about me don’t ask me no personal questions,” he added.
After much time away, the NFL coach is returning to action with North Carolina. However, the spotlight has been on his interview with CBS due to one particular situation. In the interview for his new book, Belichick was asked how he met his girlfriend, Jordan Hudson. That’s when the 24-year-old, who was also present, interrupted and shut down the question asked by Tony Dokoupil.
This resulted in criticism of Hudson. The NFL coach defended his girlfriend, saying she was only doing her job to keep the interview focused on the book. CBS responded by stating they had no limitations to ask a wide range of questions as per PEOPLE. A second interview has been cancelled.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – SEPTEMBER 16: NFL, American Football Herren, USA analyst Bill Belichick looks on during the game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Atlanta Falcons on September 15, 2024 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, PA. Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire NFL: SEP 16 Falcons at Eagles EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon240916077
Regardless of the drama, Chuck is a true friend who always takes a stand for those close to him. And not just this time—the Philadelphia 76ers legend has stood by the North Carolina coach in the past as well.
Charles Barkley takes a stand for Bill Belichick
We are talking about 2021. The 8-time Super Bowl-winning coach was receiving a lot of heat for the team’s performance. Belichick was the head coach of the Patriots at the time. The team had not won a game since the start of the 2020s.
And just like any analysts, the NFL analysts didn’t show much mercy to Belichick while criticizing him. After losing Tom Brady, the team seemingly struggled. That’s when Chuck stepped in to help his friend. During his interview on The Bill Simmons Podcast, the 11x NBA All-Star addressed the matter.
Calling out the narrative around the coach back then, he asked, “You guys got to stop treating my guy Belichick bad. I love Belichick. I consider him a good friend...I’m so disgusted with some of these punk-a– guys on television talking about Bill being on the hot seat and things like that.”
Charles Barkley’s loyalty and willingness to defend his friends, even when it goes against his usual practice, only reiterates the value he places on personal relationships. This aspect of his personality adds depth to his public image, revealing a genuine and caring side that coexists with his often blunt and unfiltered commentary.
So, it’s not surprising to see Chuck protecting and warning his friend. While he might have refused to comment on the newest drama, Chuck did express his concern.
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