Charles Barkley says he is sticking to the NBA, turning away from any additional overtures to hitch LIV Golf as a broadcaster.
“I need to thank Greg Norman and LIV for his or her curiosity in me,” Barkley told the New York Post. “I want these guys nice success and nothing however the very best. However, in my greatest curiosity, and being truthful to Turner — as a result of Turner and basketball have given me each single factor in my life — It’s best for me to maneuver on and I am staying with Turner for the remainder of my TV profession.”
Barkley, 59, informed ESPN on Thursday that he had not acquired a proper provide from LIV however had spoken with Norman, the golf sequence’ CEO.
“I met with Greg and I informed him sure. I am in a win-win scenario,” Barkley stated Thursday. “If they provide me one thing good, that is nice. If they do not, I’ve obtained an incredible job at TNT.”
Barkley shall be preserving that nice job after saying Thursday that he did not need to wait too lengthy earlier than making a call as he did not need to preserve the community, or his sponsors, in limbo..
A Corridor of Fame basketball participant, Barkley is an avid golfer, though he is identified extra for an uncommon hitch in his swing than for any success on the course. Any inclination he needed to be part of LIV was sophisticated by the golf sequence’ monetary help from Saudi Arabia’s Public Funding Fund.
“Everyone’s making up phrases like ‘sportswashing’ and ‘soiled cash.’ I am like, pay attention, if you happen to play sports activities, all of us take cash from some sources you may not love or recognize,” Barkley stated Thursday. “I do not need to be a hypocrite. These guys [LIV golfers] are attempting to make a residing. I want them nothing however the very best. Similar factor with my mates on the PGA Tour. However all people is simply kinda like making an attempt to play the ethical card.
“For some purpose, everybody needs to put selective outrage,” Barkley stated. “I am by no means going to let that occur on my watch.”
LIV Golf on Wednesday introduced plans to develop in 2023 to 14 occasions, with 48 golfers competing for an unprecedented $405 million in purses. LIV Golf additionally will stage extra tournaments in 2023 by its LIV Golf Worldwide Collection, which was launched this yr by a $300 million funding within the Asian Tour.
Data from ESPN’s John Barr was used on this report.
