Hall of Famer and insightful NBA analyst, Charles Barkley, recently made an appearance on the prestigious podcast, Club Shay Shay.
During his conversation with former NFL superstar and ESPN analyst, Shannon Sharpe, he expressed his perspectives on the future of LeBron James. Barkley wishes for LeBron"s retirement before the Lakers" star loses his prime form.
Barkley, known for his unwavering opinions, did not hold back during the interview on Club Shay Shay. “I hope he retires soon because I hated the way I retired," he remarked.
Charles Barkley: 'I hope [LeBron James] retires soon because I hated the way I retired' https://t.co/39cU8ufEG7 pic.twitter.com/xPgk2KO7au
— The Comeback (@thecomeback) May 6, 2024
The conversation moved to a lighter note as Barkley recounted his decision to retire from professional basketball.
“I remember telling myself my last two years, ‘Ok, I"m going to get myself in great shape, I"m going to have a good year, then I"m going to retire,'" he shared.
However, he confessed that his performance declined, struggling against younger players, which inevitably led him to retire. The legendary NBA player discussed the trials of growing older in the NBA.
“Everybody is great against air," he continued, “but I just couldn"t compete against younger players anymore."
"I hope he retires soon because I hated the way I retired… Your ego says you can still do it… I don’t want to see any great players play when they’re past their prime."
Charles Barkley on why he thinks LeBron James should retire 🗣️
(via @ClubShayShay)pic.twitter.com/GypviGjDeA
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) May 6, 2024
LeBron, turning 40 this December, remained silent when queried about his plans for the 2024-25 season. This came following the Lakers" loss to the Denver Nuggets, adding more speculations concerning his future in the NBA.
LeBron, however, had another landmark season, even breaking Kareem Abdul-Jabbar"s record on the NBA"s all-time scoring list.
Despite speculations, LeBron boasted a stellar performance in the 2022-23 season. He averaged 25.7 points, 8.3 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game, with a shooting percentage of 54 from the field in 71 games.
This striking feat, juxtaposed with Barkley"s advice, makes the future more intriguing.
