Charles Barkley and Kendrick Perkins (Images Credit: Youtube/ Dan KeBatard Show, Getty Images)
The Paris Olympics saw Team USA clinching their 17th gold medal. While the team ended their dream campaign without a single loss, they had tough encounters throughout the tournament that frustrated Charles Barkley. After warning the USA for gold medal, the NBA Hall of Famer targeted Team USA’s head coach, Steve Kerr.
However, Barkley’s criticism didn’t sit well with Kendrick Perkins, who was quick to slam the NBA legend, calling Barkley an “asinine.” During an appearance on the Dan LeBatard Show, Barkley hit back at Perkins.
“First of all, listen, don’t bring up, bring up a guy who averaged five points a game. I’m not gonna stoop to his level. You average five points a game shut the hell up,” Barkley said.
What Did Charles Barkley Say on Steve Kerr’s Coaching?
During an interview with ESPN Radio, Charles Barkley criticized Team USA’s performance in the Paris Olympics, suggesting that the team was tested more than necessary. Barkley attributed this to head coach Steve Kerr not fully utilizing the talent available to him, particularly pointing out the treatment of Jayson Tatum.
“They haven’t used their depth the right way because one advantage we had in 1992, and they still have today when they go to their bench, they’re bringing in better players. [Kerr] has not used his team properly. Put Jayson Tatum in an NBA game; he’s better than 99% of the guys already in the world, but especially those who are coming from a foreign country,” Barkley said.
The benching of stars like Jayson Tatum caught significant attention, particularly after Tatum was sidelined in both games against Serbia. The situation even drew a comment from Tatum’s mother, who subtly criticized Team USA’s coaching decisions.