In the world of NBA commentary, few duos bring as much personality and insight to the table as Kenny “The Jet” Smith and Charles Barkley. A recent revelation by Smith about Barkley’s compulsive habits has both surprised and amused fans.
Long before COVID-19, Barkley was all about cleanliness, Smith revealed on Big Boy TV. Barkley’s use of hand sanitizers and wipes was well-established even back then, which Smith diagnoses as his OCD. His admiration and amusement at Barkley’s meticulousness was evident throughout the conversation.
His routine of carrying wipes and placing objects in a precise order was a quirky trait that his colleagues noticed well before the world grappled with a health crisis. Kenny “The Jet” Smith explained on BigBoyTV:
He [Charles Barkley] has OCD. It was crazy, It’d be crazy. If we was here now he’d be like this cup here, that water bottle he be placing them. He’s the only one I knew who’s carrying wipes before COVID.
Kenny Smith said
Kenny, sharing insights from his time with co-hosts Chuck and Shaquille O’Neal on Inside the NBA, warmly thinks of them “like brothers” highlighting the depth of their connection. This camaraderie is a cornerstone of their success on the show, weaving together sharp basketball insights with their playful exchanges.
Back in 2020, when Smith walked off the set to stand in solidarity with the Milwaukee Bucks’ protest, Barkley didn’t hold back his critique. Yet, this moment didn’t tarnish their mutual respect. Smith believes that Barkley plays a significant role in shaping the voice he has today, underscoring their unique dynamic.
Charles Barkley ‘congratulates’ Shaquille O’Neal for Orlando Jersey retirement
Charles Barkley reached out to congratulate Shaquille O’Neal on the Orlando Magic retiring his iconic No. 32 jersey. This historical event not only honored Shaq as the first player to receive such recognition from the franchise but also celebrated his pivotal role in shaping the team’s legacy.
Shaquille O’Neal recently became the first Orlando Magic player to get his jersey retired (Bleacher Report)True to form, Barkley didn’t miss the chance for some friendly ribbing, teasing Shaq:
Congratulations! Hold up… This for the Lakers, Cleveland, Miami, Suns, or Boston jersey retirement? Oh, my bad, it’s Orlando Magic!… Love ya, man. You truly deserve it!
Charles Barkley said
The Magic retiring Shaq’s jersey during their 35th season honored his major impact. Shaq picked first in 1992, transformed the Magic instantly. He led them to their first playoff and an NBA Finals.
Throughout his time with the Magic, Shaq averaged an impressive career-best 27.2 points, 2.8 blocks and 12.5 rebounds. His jersey retirement immortalizes him in the annals of NBA history, alongside other legends who’ve had their numbers retired by multiple teams.
