Celtics Collapse Predicted by Charles Barkley in NBA Finals: 'Mavs in 7!'
If Charles Barkley is really going out in terms of retirement, he's doing so by going out ...
On a limb.
analysis, as the NBA legend announced on Friday night that the 2024-25 season will be his last on television before retiring.
With the end of his TV career in sight, TNT's Barkley is issuing a wild prediction for the Dallas Mavericks vs. the Boston Celtics.
Celtics Collapse Predicted by Charles Barkley in NBA Finals: 'Mavs in 7!'
“We’re gonna rise up in Houston. We’re gonna rise up with them big women in San Antonio. We’re gonna rise up in Galveston. And we’re coming back to Dallas for Game 6. Mavs in 7!” Barkley hooted, predicting a Dallas fight-back even though the Mavs are down 1-3 in the series.
That next test for Dallas comes on Monday night in Boston, as it takes on the Celtics in Game 5.
Meanwhile, speaking of "comebacks'' ...
Barkley announced on Friday night that next NBA season will be his final one as an analyst. But TNT doesn't seem to be taking "goodbye'' for an answer.
"I ain't going nowhere other than TNT," Barkley said amid speculation that NBA might forge a contract with a network that leaves TNT out of the picture. "But I have made the decision that, no matter what happens, next year is going to be my last year on television. And I just want to say thank you to my NBA family.
"You guys have been great to me. My heart is full with joy and gratitude."
Well, that's lovely. But "my last year on television''? Chuck quitting at age 61? To do what? Get better at golf (which, if you've watched him play, know is impossible)?
On Saturday, TNT issued a response regarding Barkley's future.
TNT, calling Barkley a "broadcasting icon'' - no debate there - talked of "future plans'' with the legendary player turned one-of-a-kind commentator.
"Charles is a Hall of Famer and broadcasting icon who is and will always be a beloved member of the TNT Sports family," the statement read. "We’re looking forward to another fantastic NBA on TNT season and further discussion of our future plans with him."