Charles Barkley Criticizes ESPN and Kendrick Perkins Over NBA Coverage

Barkley took aim at ESPN's focus on the Lakers and Warriors, sparking responses from Perkins and Stephen A. Smith.

Charles Barkley criticized ESPN's NBA coverage, calling out the network for prioritizing the Lakers and Warriors over high-performing teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Oklahoma City Thunder.
Barkley labeled ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins a 'fool' and 'idiot' for his comment that the Lakers 'saved the NBA' following their recent trade for Luka Doncic.
Perkins responded on social media, challenging Barkley to maintain his rhetoric in person and defending his stance on the Lakers' resurgence.
Stephen A. Smith defended ESPN's coverage and responded to Barkley's remarks, urging him to be specific in his critiques and prepare for scrutiny when he joins ESPN next season.
Shaquille O'Neal partially supported Barkley's critique, agreeing that successful smaller-market teams deserve more recognition but acknowledged the media's focus on marquee franchises.