Charles Barkley Dismisses LeBron James Beating Father Time Narrative: “Got Swept the Last 2 Years”

Charles Barkley doesn't agree with the narrative that LeBron James is beating 'Father Time' as he enters his 24th NBA season.

Charles Barkley Dismisses LeBron James Beating Father Time Narrative: “Got Swept the Last 2 Years”

Charles Barkley on LeBron James (Image credits - NY Post and Yahoo Sports)

It has been 23 years since LeBron James was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers as the number one pick. Not only did James enter the league straight out of high school as an 18 year old, he was the most hyped player in NBA history.

Fast-forward to today, he has not only met the expectations but even surpassed them as he has cemented himself as one of the if not the greatest player of all time. Yet, he is still not done.

James is coming off a historic 23rd season in the NBA. While he may not be the athletic specimen that he once was, he can still elevate his game when it matters the most. Prior to James, only a handful of players have played 21 seasons or more. However, none of them were anywhere near their best and played as role players.

That is not the case with James as he has defied father time like nobody else. However, Charles Barkley does not agree that James is truly beating father time.

We have to be honest about LeBron. Just because you’re putting up good numbers don’t mean you’re being affective. He’s gotten swept in the playoffs the last couple of years. LeBron is playing well but to say he’s beating Father Time, they got swept the last two years in the playoffs so don’t tell me how great he’s playing.

Charles Barkley said on Bill Simmons podcast

In his 23rd season, James averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists in 60 appearances. While most players would have struggled to average even double digit points, James averaged over 20 points last season.

However, Charles Barkley is left unimpressed by the numbers and pointed out to James’ recent playoff results as evidence.

‘King James’ is still not done adding to his legacy as he joined the Philadelphia 76ers on a two-year deal in one of the biggest moves of the summer.

RELATED
LeBron James’ New 76ers Teammate Had Epic Reaction to the King’s Signing: “Really Thought It Was Fake at First”

Charles Barkley questions LeBron James’ longevity

Barkley never shies away from speaking his mind. The former MVP was one of the first people to question James move to the 76ers. After playing eight years in the Los Angeles Lakers, his decision to not sign a new contract with them surprised many.

LeBron James
LeBron James (Image credits – Yahoo Sports)

While James’ numbers last season were impressive, it did take a dip as he played as a secondary option to Luka Doncic. But Barkley does not believe that necessarily means he is still playing at an elite level.

However, Barkley’s statements about James does not give the full story. In 2025, James and the Lakers suffered a gentleman sweep to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the first round.

While he did get swept by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round last season, he did lead the Lakers to a first round win over the Houston Rockets.

LeBron James will play his 24th and 25th seasons in Philly after signing a two-year contract with them. While Barkley has remained critical of the move, he did concede that he would call James the GOAT if he could lead the 76ers to back-to-back championships.

RELATED
Celtics Superfan Mark Wahlberg Wants LeBron James’ 76ers to Beat the Knicks

Charles Barkley and Ernie Johnson are leaving Inside the NBA after this season

Charles Barkley joined the Inside The NBA show as an analyst in 2000. Since then, it has become one of the most popular American sports show.

The former MVP is joined by former players, Shaquille O’Neal and Kenny Smith. Meanwhile, Ernie Johnson is the host of the show after joining the popular show in 1990. However, it looks like the 2026-27 campaign will be the last for Barkley and Johnson.

Me and Ernie are a package deal. So right now, unless Ernie changes his mind, next year is my last year 100 percent.

Charles Barkley said on Bill Simmons podcast

If the duo do end up leaving after the upcoming season, it will be a huge loss for the show. Barkley and O’Neal are foes-turned-friends and are fan favorites on Inside the NBA.

They have shared several memorable and hilarious moments on the show over the years. Unfortunately, the next season will likely be the last one.

Also Read: