“Anytime I’m around him, I’m like a kid in a candy store” – When Charles Barkley hailed Wilt Chamberlain as the GOAT
Charles Barkley, the Round Mound of Rebound, a legend in his own right, is no stranger to hyperbole. Known for his boisterous personality and unapologetic opinions, he’s often found expressing his admiration for fellow NBA greats. However, when it came to Wilt Chamberlain, Barkley’s admiration crossed the threshold of simple praise and landed firmly in the territory of awe.
It was during a 2013 interview with ESPN’s “First Take” that Barkley’s awe for Chamberlain was revealed. In a moment of unbridled enthusiasm, he proclaimed, “Anytime I’m around him, I’m like a kid in a candy store. I mean, this guy, I want to know everything.” His voice crackled with excitement as he continued, “He’s so smart, he’s so witty. He’s got the most amazing stories, and I’m always so amazed by him. He’s the GOAT. He’s the greatest basketball player of all time. It’s not even close.”
Chamberlain, with his staggering statistics, unparalleled physical dominance, and intriguing personal life, was a true giant in the basketball world. He holds the NBA’s single-game scoring record with 100 points, averaging over 30 points per game across his illustrious career. His records in rebounding, blocks, and free throws still stand as a testament to his athletic prowess.
While debates over the greatest basketball player of all time continue to rage, Barkley’s assertion about Chamberlain reflects the impact the “Big Dipper” had on the game. Chamberlain transcended the limitations of mere talent; he possessed a charisma that drew in his contemporaries and captivated audiences.
Barkley’s sentiment, shared by many, speaks volumes about the awe and admiration generated by Chamberlain. Even decades after his retirement, his legacy continues to resonate. For those who witnessed him in action, for those who have delved into his records, for those who heard his captivating stories, Wilt Chamberlain is more than a name in the history books – he’s an icon, a legend, and, in the eyes of many, the undisputed GOAT.
