Charles Barkley’s time as a fixture on the most-watched NBA pregame and postgame show could be coming to an end sooner than later. “Inside The NBA” on TNT could be losing the heart and soul of their award-winning operation.
Barkley’s an avid golfer, and he’s hinted at retirement several times over the last few years. He could be leaving to help the brand-new LIV Golf circuit. While the capacity in which they’d want Barkley isn’t yet known, one has to believe he’ll serve as an anchor or analyst of the sport.
According to The Post, “After meeting with LIV Golf CEO Greg Norman about the possibility of joining the tour as broadcaster, Charles Barkley will participate in their event next week at the Trump National in Bedminster, New Jersey.
“I’m going to play in the Pro-Am,” Barkley told The Post.
Barkley talked about the endless possibilities last week on “The Next Round” podcast.
“Nothing’s that imminent, I actually don’t know everything they want from me, or what they technically want me to do, but you’ve got to always look at every opportunity that’s available. So the answer to your question is 100 percent yes, I’m going to meet with LIV.”
"The answer to your question is 100% yes. I'm gonna meet with LIV." On today's show, Charles Barkley joined us in studio and confirmed that he will be speaking to Greg Norman about a role with LIV Golf. @NoLayingUp @RiggsBarstool @barstoolsports @GOLF_com @GolfDigest @GolfChannel pic.twitter.com/AOMQJRoKZB
— The Next Round (@NextRoundLive) July 14, 2022
Barkley has been outspoken on the new golf tour craze that’s giving the PGA Tour a run for its money. In fact, prior to last month’s U.S. Open, Chuck spoke about good friend Phil Mickelson leaving the PGA Tour for LIV Golf.
“We’ve all got to live our life and make our own decisions.”
ALRIGHT CHUCK 😂😂😂#PMSLive pic.twitter.com/XvozzrcVBu
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) June 17, 2022
For various political reasons, people have been critical of American golfers joining the tour, but ESPN reports that Barkley’s response to any questions about his ethics as it pertains to doing business with LIV is, “We’ve all taken bold money.”
Barkley Recently Stated He Was Going To Retire At End Of TNT Contract
In February, “Sir Charles” stated that he didn’t want to die on television, but rather on the golf course or fishing. With his first grandchild recently being born, Barkley also stated he wanted to spend time with her.
In an interview with the Dallas Morning News, Barkley had this to say.
“It’s been a great, great thing. I love Ernie, Kenny, Shaq and everybody we work with. But I just don’t feel the need to work until the day I die. I don’t, man. I’ll be 61 years old if I finish out my contract.
“And I don’t want to die on TV. I want to die on the golf course or somewhere fishing. I don’t want to be sitting inside over by fat-ass Shaq waiting to drop dead.”
Barkley’s comments back then ring even louder now in light of his meeting with LIV Golf. Could Barkley leave TNT and head over to LIV? He would be making a living doing what he likes to do most. Golf is his passion. And based on the money LIV Golf is shelling out to golfers, they’re also probably willing to pay someone handsomely for association with a celebrity of Chuck’s stature. Maybe even make him the voice of LIV Golf.
Charles Would Definitely Have To Quit TNT If He Joins LIV
Dan Patrick calls the Barkley “most valuable voice in sports media.” He also stated that Barkley would have to part ways with TNT if he does in fact LIV Golf, there will be no double-dipping. Patrick alluded to a conversation he had with someone connected to the station’s hierarchy who told him Barkley couldn’t do both.
Dan Patrick says he was told by Charles Barkley he may need to leave TNT if he joins LIV Golf pic.twitter.com/2brmHS39K0
— Brandon Contes (@BrandonContes) July 19, 2022
If Barkley moves on from the legendary show, TNT just won’t be the same. But Barkley has been adamant he isn’t doing this forever, so the next couple months are going to be interesting.
