Overview
- Charles Barkley criticized ESPN's NBA coverage for prioritizing the Lakers and Warriors over high-performing teams like the Cavaliers and Thunder.
- During a segment on 'Inside the NBA,' Barkley labeled Kendrick Perkins a 'fool' for claiming the Lakers 'saved the NBA.'
- Perkins responded on social media, challenging Barkley to maintain his criticism in person, escalating tensions between the two future ESPN colleagues.
- Stephen A. Smith defended ESPN's content strategy while urging Barkley to specify his critiques and prepare for scrutiny when joining the network next season.
- Despite the controversy, Barkley received support from Shaquille O’Neal, who agreed that smaller-market teams deserve greater recognition.