Charles Barkley, now a prominent sports media personality, has long been known for his candid views and unique perspective on basketball. Reflecting on Devin Booker’s recent $145 million extension, Barkley argues that NBA players have every reason to be among the happiest people alive, given the privileges the sport affords them. He believes this mindset should be more widespread throughout the league.
From Challenging Beginnings to Embracing NBA Success
Barkley’s journey to the NBA was marked by adversity. Growing up in Leeds, Alabama during an era of segregation, he was not only the first black baby born in the local hospital but also one of the first black students at his elementary school. These humble origins shaped his appreciation for success and the opportunities basketball provided him. The financial rewards of his NBA career, starting with a modest $2 million contract, transformed his outlook and personality.
Barkley’s Perspective on Athlete Privilege
While acknowledging mental health challenges faced by some athletes, such as DeMar DeRozan’s depression and Kevin Love’s anxiety, Barkley stresses that many NBA players fail to fully appreciate their fortunate circumstances. He pointed out the substantial earnings for playing basketball, saying,
“We get paid a gazillion dollars to do something stupid. These people are paying me millions of dollars to dribble a stupid a** basketball,”
highlighting the extraordinary nature of their jobs.
Devin Booker’s Extension as a Symbol of NBA Player Advantage
Barkley views Devin Booker’s two-year, $145 million contract extension as a reminder of the immense rewards available in professional basketball. He stated,
“I saw Devin Booker got a two-year extension. He’s gonna get over $70 million a year. He should be the happiest person. He should just go around shaking people’s hands,”
suggesting that players like Booker have ample reason to embrace positivity.
Recognition of Other Lucrative NBA Contracts
Beyond Booker, Barkley also referenced other significant deals in the league, noting,
“I saw Chet Holmgren got 200 something million. Shai just got $300 million. Why wouldn’t you be in a good mood? You work a couple of hours a day, four days a week. What are you not happy about?”
His comparison highlights how NBA contracts far exceed many demanding and less remunerated professions.
Comparing NBA Careers with Other Professions
Pointing to the physical and mental challenges of demanding jobs like surgeons or oil rig workers, Barkley underscores the relatively easy nature of professional basketball. He hopes more players will adopt this outlook and genuinely appreciate the benefits their careers offer, encouraging a sense of gratitude and happiness within the athlete community.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Devin Booker married to Kendall?
A. Kendall Jenner and Devin Booker reportedly ended their relationship again over a month ago. Us Weekly mentioned that a source said, “They’ve had an on-and-off relationship for years and recently broke up.” The source added, “Their busy schedules are usually the reason for this.”