Charles Barkley, a well-known figure in NBA circles, has gained a reputation as a quirky golfer with a unique swing that often draws attention. Despite the unusual style, Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson recently vouched for Barkley’s golfing ability, highlighting his consistent long drives during a recent podcast episode. Brunson’s account sheds new light on Barkley’s golf game, reinforcing that his skills extend beyond just his entertaining style on the course.
The Story Behind Barkley’s Distinct Swing
Michael Jordan once shared an explanation for Barkley’s idiosyncratic golf stroke during an interview on the Oprah Winfrey Show. Jordan recalled that Barkley used to shoot impressive scores like 76 or 77 before changing his technique based on advice from a golf instructor. This instructor recommended Barkley slow his swing tempo with a pause at the top to improve control, resulting in the characteristic stop-and-start style seen today. Despite this unconventional motion, Barkley’s driving distance remains formidable.
Brunson’s Personal Experience Golfing with Barkley
Jalen Brunson recently recounted his experience playing golf alongside Charles Barkley and his father. The 28-year-old star emphasized Barkley’s ability to consistently hit the ball at least 280 yards per shot, a notable achievement for any golfer regardless of their swing technique. Brunson also praised Barkley’s resilience on the course, describing how he manages to recover impressively after poor starts to holes, sometimes turning the situation around to win.
“Charles Barkley is a great golfer,”
Brunson said.
“Fixed his hits, fixed all of that. Man was hitting the ball at least 280 every time consistently.”
—Jalen Brunson, NBA Point Guard
“I remember one time, I’ve never seen this from a non-pro. When you hit the ball in the water on a Par 5 off the tee box, and still Par. There were times he was like, ‘Y’all gonna win this hole,’ and then he ends up winning the hole. He’s good,”
added Brunson, underlining Barkley’s skill and competitive spirit.
The Role of Instructor Stan Utley in Revitalizing Barkley’s Game
By 2018, Barkley’s golf game was reportedly in poor shape until he began taking lessons with renowned teacher Stan Utley. Utley described Barkley’s form as “awful” when they first worked together but was able to improve it significantly through focused coaching. A critical adjustment involved correcting Barkley’s club casting—releasing the wrist angle at the right moment—to enhance contact and power in his drives.
Barkley himself recounted the mental aspect of his improvement, crediting Utley with calming his approach on the course.
“Stan calmed my brain down. He said, ‘Hey man, you can’t think about 10 things over the ball.’ That one thing calmed me down,”
Barkley explained during an interview with Golf.com. This mental clarity helped him regain confidence and consistency in his swing.
Barkley’s Dedication and Competitive Nature in Golf
Barkley’s journey in golf reflects the same determination that defined his NBA career, where he was known for his fierce competitive drive. He questioned the level of effort required to improve, stating,
“How hard are you willing to work for your goals?”
and emphasizing that
“Determination is what separates great athletes.”
This mindset continues to fuel his commitment to the game, despite golf being an individual sport where every shot counts.
While Barkley has experienced both strong rounds and disappointing performances—such as losing money to commentator Dan DaKich—the former NBA star’s passion for golf remains evident. The game offers him a new arena to compete seriously and showcase his abilities beyond basketball.
The Broader Context and What Lies Ahead for Barkley’s Game
Charles Barkley’s progress in golf demonstrates how an athlete known for his dominance on the basketball court can translate perseverance into an entirely different sport. Jalen Brunson’s endorsement highlights that Barkley’s talent is more than just a novelty tied to his unusual swing, proving he hits drives comparable to professional levels. As Barkley continues to hone his skills under expert guidance, it will be interesting to see how his golf game evolves and whether he can gain wider recognition within the golf community.