Charles Barkley got out a self-imposed quarantine and he returned sharper than before, making big claims about two of the best players in the history of the game. Chuck joined ESPN’s ‘Get Up!’ to discuss a variety of topics.
At some point, the former Philadelphia 76ers and Phoenix Suns star remembered how it was playing against a young Kobe Bryant, labeling the Lakers legend as the biggest player he saw in his career other than Michael Jordan, Barkley’s friend, and rival during the 90s.
“Kobe Bryant is the best basketball player I’ve seen compared to Michael Jordan. I think Michael is the greatest I’ve ever seen and played against but the only guy I’ve said, I’ve always said this Kobe Bryant is the closest I’ve ever seen. I didn’t get to play against Karim in his prime or with a Bill Russell or Lebron, but I’m telling you Kobe Bryant is the best player I’ve ever seen other than Michael Jordan,” Barkley said.
"Kobe Bryant's the best player I've ever seen other than Michael Jordan."
—Charles Barkley pic.twitter.com/pkjAsYIAeL
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) April 6, 2020
Barkley clarified he only played against a young version of Kobe, but the things he saw were enough to enchant Chuck. Kobe would go on to have a terrific career, winning 5 NBA championships and one MVP award along with several others accolades.
Kobe is often seen as a top 3 player in the history of the game, always being in the same conversation as MJ and LeBron James. Well, for Barkley, KB24 and His Airness are the best of the best in the game.
High praise from Charles Barkley 🐍 🐐
(via @getupespn) pic.twitter.com/aO5ChjNDLf
— ESPN (@espn) April 6, 2020
