Sixers to Honor Charles Barkley with Statue

Before Charles Barkley became the popular, outspoken analyst he is today, he was a young forward for the Philadelphia 76ers. Barkley played eight seasons with the Sixers and made an impact on the organization. So much so, the Sixers are honoring him in a big way. According to the Sixers, they will honor Barkley with a statue.

On Friday, Sept. 13, the 76ers will hold a sculpture unveiling ceremony to unveil their latest statue. The Barkley statue will be on the Sixers Legend Walk, which features statues of other Sixers legends such as Wilt Chamberlain, Julius Erving and Moses Malone. Barkley is the eighth Sixer to receive the honor.

Barkley started his career with the Sixers after they selected him in the 1984 draft. The Sixers had the fifth pick and used it to choose the forward from Alabama.

In his rookie season, Barkley averaged 14 points and 8.6 rebounds. He joined veterans Maurice Cheeks, Erving and Malone, who helped the Sixers win a championship two seasons before Barkley’s arrival. Then, as seasons progressed, he became the Sixers focal point.

Barkley stayed with the Sixers until 1992 when they traded to the Phoenix Suns. He had an MVP season in 1993 and led the Suns to an NBA Finals appearance. He played with the Suns for four seasons before joining the Houston Rockets in 1995.

While Barkley played for two other teams, Philadelphia is where it all started. He became a household name in the NBA and started his Hall of Fame career.

Receiving a statue is one of many honors (former) NBA players can receive. Barkley was a great player and joins other Sixers greats as he gets a statue on Legends Walk. A statue is a high honor, and Barkley joins the ranks of other greats. It is well deserved.

Featured Image courtesy of NBAE/Getty Images

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