Inside the NBA: Kenny Smith and Draymond Green React to Barkley’s Big News
Charles Barkley surprised the NBA world by revealing his plans to retire from broadcasting after the upcoming season, last week. This surprising decision made his supporters and especially his Inside the NBA colleague, Kenny Smith, feel sad.
Response from Kenny Smith
Kenny Smith, known as “The Jet,” comically expressed his annoyance at a recent National Basketball League event. During his speech, the 59-year-old jokingly taunted Barkley by introducing himself as Kenny ‘The Jet’ Smith. I will not be retiring. How can you stop working without reaching out to your coworkers? I don’t know how to do it at all. I’m patiently anticipating a phone call from him. “So, we’ll discover shortly.”
Kenny Smith’s frustration seems justified because they have worked together for more than twenty years. During this period, they forged a strong bond, providing mutual support in every area of their lives. Smith expected a phone call from his good friend after making a big decision.
Kenny Smith’s teasing might have the seeds of a different future within it. While Barkley is known to speak his mind, he tends to discuss his decisions with his loved ones before making a final choice. His current handling of the situation suggests that he may not be giving the decision the seriousness it deserves. Smith chose to focus more on their relationship and facing Chuck, rather than giving too much importance to the statement.
The viewpoint of Draymond Green
Draymond Green downplayed Charles Barkley’s retirement talks as well. The Golden State Warriors star advised NBA fans not to take Barkley’s comments too seriously. He expressed his thoughts on The Draymond Green Show, mentioning, “Chuck is obviously getting very emotional… One morning, you might have the thought, ‘You know what?’ I am done with this material. I am departing… And you probably come to the realization and ponder, ‘I’m definitely not giving up.’ “What was I thinking?”
The hesitancy of Barkley’s two friends to explore his words further suggests that the future will stay the same. However, the NBA community is still anxious and vigilant, as there are no assurances in this situation.
