Barkley: A Biography

by Timothy Bella

*A Good Morning America Buzz Book*
*A LitHub Most Anticipated Book of 2022*

The definitive biography of Charles Barkley, exploring his early childhood, his storied NBA career, and his enduring legacy as a provocative voice in American pop culture

He’s one of the most interesting American athletes in the past fifty years. Passionate, candid, iconoclastic, and gifted both on and off the court, Charles Barkley has made a lasting impact on not only the world of basketball but pop culture at large.

Yet few people know the real Charles. Raised by his mother and grandmother in Leeds, Alabama, he struggled in his early years to fit in until he found a sense of community and purpose in basketball. In the NBA he went toe-to-toe with the biggest legends in the game, from Magic to Michael to Hakeem to Shaq. But in the years since, he has become a bold agitator for social change, unafraid to grapple, often brashly, with even the thorniest of cultural issues facing our nation today.

Informed by over 370 original interviews and painstaking research, Timothy Bella’s Barkley is the most comprehensive biography to date of one of the most talked-about icons in the world of sports.

Genres: Sports, Biography, Basketball, Nonfiction, Biography Memoir, Audiobook, Memoir

805 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 1, 2022

Reviews

[Lance · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whether one is familiar with Charles Barkley as a basketball player or as a broadcaster for TNT’s coverage of the NBA, he is sure to be entertaining and possibly controversial, but always refreshingly honest. Those traits are on full display in this very good biography of Barkley by Tim Bella.

The amount of material on Barkley, even without the direct participation by the subject, that was obtained by Bella through research and interviews was amazing. The sections on Barkley’s childhood and youth was especially impressive given these limitations. From those beginnings, a reader will see why Barkley became the person he did, given the strength and guidance he received from his mother and grandmother. Like many other biographies of Black athletes, sadly Barkley had to grow up in Leeds, Alabama without a father figure in his life, but he was able to discover basketball to not only avoid crime, but also to eventually earn a college scholarship to Auburn University.

While at Auburn, not only did Barkley become a superstar college player and make the War Eagles noticed in the basketball world as well as football, but it was also here when his weight was as big a story as his scoring or rebounding. His appetite for fast food seemed to be as big as his thunderous dunks and it was always a source of contention for coaches and the press, from high school to the NBA. Some of the anecdotes about this aspect of Barkley’s personality are hilarious, some are dead serious, but all are important to understanding the type of person Bella is portraying.

The same goes for Barkley’s many controversial statements and incidents. The most famous, and the one that Bella explores in depth, is the Nike commercial in which Barkley declares that he is not a role model. Bella does an excellent job of covering all aspects of this topic, as both supporters and detractors of this statement are interviewed. The same type of balanced writing is present in Barkley’s other issues, such as when he meant to spit at a heckler while playing for the 76ers, but instead it landed on an 8-year-old girl. That incident, and Barkley’s reaction and treatment of the young girl well into adulthood for her, showed the gentler side of Barkley, which Bella also portrays well.

Of course, there is Barkley’s time on the basketball court and his time with three teams. It was in Philadelphia where his NBA fame started and grew with the 76ers. When he wanted out of the City of Brotherly Love, he won even more accolades, including being named the MVP of the NBA while leading the Phoenix Suns into the NBA Finals in 1993. The Suns fell short of winning a championship and while they were still a formidable team, they never reached the Finals again during Barkley’s time there, which ended in 1996 when he was traded to the Houston Rockets for one last shot at a title, that didn’t happen. He was forced to retire due to injuries, playing his last game in 2000. This is the heart of Bella’s writing and there is a great deal of detail on Barkley’s time with all three teams as well as his college career with Auburn and both Olympic teams Barkley was a part of while a professional player. The Dream Team of 1992 is covered as well as the 1996 team that also won a gold medal. Whatever portion of Barkley’s basketball career a reader wants to know about, he or she is sure to find new material in this book.

While I generally enjoy this level of detail about the sport in any type of book, here it was so detailed that it made the story of Barkley’s life slow down and at times I wasn’t sure which season was being described, especially during his time with the Suns and Rockets. It is still the most complete book on Charles Barkley that one can read right now, even more than his two memoirs. This is recommended for all Barkley fans.

I wish to thank Hanover Square Press for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Brian Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I knew almost all of these stories but some I had forgotten and my favorite ones I will stop and listen every time. For anyone who doesn’t know, Barkley was really that good. There was a period of time he was the second best basketball player in the world, second only to Jordan. At 6’4” he is the shortest player to ever lead the league in rebounding. He was a fierce competitor. He’s already an icon and hall of famer, but he really would have dominated in today’s age of position less basketball.

I have always enjoyed stories about Charles and his grandmother. Those were favorites of mine in this book. I didn’t know she had died a bit ago but I should have realized. What a special lady.

Some other favorites….

I forgot about this legendary fight. How about this. 3 legends of the game, Dr J, Larry Bird, and Barkley. The Sixers are playing the Celtics and Dr J and Bird go face to face and each are choking the other. Barkley comes up behind Bird and puts him in a headlock while Dr J punches Bird 3 times in the face. I miss yesterday’s game.

And in the playoffs when Barkley knocks out Paul Mokeski with an overhand right and the response is a technical foul. That’s how things used to be. Get up and shoot your free throw Mokeski. I miss yesterday’s game.

And later in his career after a fist fight with Shaq, both of their moms call them on a conference call to tell them to stop.

And telling the story of Charles post playing career when he and Shaq are on TNT making fun of the Clippers and Rockets for the “police presence”. Haha gold! Those two are must see tv on TNT. And when Charles was fighting with the ladies who live in San Antonio. Actually I think that is still going on. 😂

A lot of times these books have a lot of time going over results of games and this book was no different. I found these parts to be the least interesting but still enjoyed the book.

[Max Skidmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed learning more about Charles Barkley. He grew up poor in Alabama; raised by a single mother and his grandmother. He was overweight and learned to be self-deprecating, which contributes to his humorous personality. When he was young, someone described him as a “whiney fat kid who can’t shoot.” He is 6’6” tall which is not bad for a point guard but challenging for a power forward. He played with the Philadelphia 76ers on a team that included Julius Erving and Moses Malone. He was good friends with Moses who became somewhat of a father figure. He asked Moses one day “Why am I not getting more playing time?” ‘Because your fat and lazy!” He was once described as being Fred Astaire in an Orson Welles body. How good of an athlete was he? He was recovering from a knee injury. While wearing a brace that completely immobilized his leg, he was told he couldn’t practice basketball. He went out to the court, stood under the rim and dunked the ball ten times in rapid succession while using only one leg. He was an NBA All Star 11 times. He was the NBA’s Most Valuable Player in 1993 and finished in the top 5 multiple times. I didn’t realize that he and Bo Jackson were at Auburn University at the same time. He likely would have won multiple NBA titles if it hadn’t been for Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. When I learned that he quietly goes about doing good things with his fame and fortune, my admiration increased.

[Scott Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Audiobook) This work looks at one of the most unique of superstar athletes to ever play basketball and then transition into a superstar commentator. Barkley came from poor upbringings in Leeds, Alabama, but was able to leverage his inherent talent for playing basketball into a way out of poverty and into superstardom. The work does travel over the well-documented accounts of Barkley as a player, his more famous/infamous moments in the press, as well as his varied post-playing activities. He has done things his way, for better or worse. Plus, Barkley is one of those individuals who can skirt the line, but not really get punished too severely for crossing it a little.

Overall, the more informative parts of this book to me were the details of his personal life, which I had little insight into as a sports fan. Always felt he was a good pickup for the all-in Rockets in 1997, and one wonders what if Barkley hadn't ruptured his tricep against Utah in 1998. Still, has found a good niche as a co-host of Inside the NBA on TNT, and is generally enjoyable to listen to for commentary and self-deprecating humor.

You don't have to be a Barkley fan to enjoy the work or get something out of it. Unfortunate that the author couldn't get too much primary source input from the man, but he was through in his other sourcing and accounts. Audiobook reader is solid for this one, but the rating would be the same regardless of the format.

[Joshua White · Rating 3 out of 5]

3*
A bit bloated at times, but an undeniably interesting exploration into the life of an iconic figure.

[Doog · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a great example of a book with more than enough reporting but no heart. I should’ve been more suspicious once I realized that Chuck declined to participate.

[Greg Holman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I actually learned a lot about Sir Charles through this book.

[Jonathan Sanders · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a huge fan of sports biographies, I was excited to pick this one up when I saw it advertised in early November. I knew very little about Barkley's life aside from his 90s-era advertisements, as well as his post-NBA television work. So it was refreshing to read a biography which pulled together every thread of the man's life, from his childhood in Leeds, Ala. through his college and NBA experiences, giving us the background to understand how many of the things we thought we knew about him were either wrong or exaggerated. Charles Barkley is a man who speaks his mind, well known for his 'takes' and often contrarian nature, but there's a lot more beneath the surface, something this book does a great job of illustrating. Even if you can't stand sports, you'll still find a lot to love about what Bella does in this unauthorized deep-dive into the life of a basketball legend.

[Joe · Rating 3 out of 5]

I don't like biographies because there's too much gossip and unfounded negative slander. Bella does a decent job being a little less negative, however, it was not written very clearly, nor edited well.
Too long at 439 pages. I would have given it 4 stars if it was. "I may be wrong but I doubt it" might be a better option to read. Michael Wilbon is an American treasure.

[Steve Wolcott · Rating 5 out of 5]

It didn't hold my interest especially after I found out that Barkley didn't cooperate with the author and participate in the book

[Ken Heard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although I wasn't a big Charles Barkley fan when he played in the NBA (I was a Celtics fan), I thought Timothy Bella's biography on the player was excellent. He did thorough research on Barkley's life, including his childhood through his days as a rascal at TNT network.

And he presented it in a very fair fashion. We all heard about the incident when Barkley was accused of spitting on a girl. Bella found the girl years later and wrote about her side in a balanced way. He did the same when Barkley was accused of throwing a man through a plate glass window at a bar as well.

And, while some may think Barkley was an oaf, Bella also showed his compassion -- Barkley constantly gave money to charities and bought food for the homeless who lived under an overpass.

The impression I got after reading the book was that Barkley, like lots of athletes, have a bolsterous way, but it also hides the fear of failure. I thought Bella did an excellent job of conveying Barkley's inner thoughts in a very balance and eye-opening way.

This was one of the better sports biographies I've read in years.

[Tom Gase · Rating 5 out of 5]

An epic, well-researched, well-written book on Charles Barkley, one of the most charismatic and best players the NBA has ever seen. You don't always agree with some of the things he did, but he seems to always admit he was wrong and should have done better -- even the times I think he was in the right. Nothing is rushed in this book. There is a good deal about his days growing up, playing in college at Auburn, his NBA days with the 76ers and his teams he played with from 1985-1992, his teams with the Phoenix Suns from 1993-1996 and especially the 1993 MVP year when the Suns went to the Finals, as well as his years with Houston from 97-2000. And of course his altercations off the court as well as in the studio on Inside the NBA are discussed at length. This is the third book I've read on Barkley and the first in 11 years and this one is BY FAR the best one on him. Absolutely great stuff. If you're a fan of the player you must read and if you're a fan of NBA basketball this book is a great trip down memory lane. Can't wait to read Timothy Bella's next one.

[Chris Schaffer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some interesting parts on his youth. The college part was good but way, way, way too much on the food. We get it, he ate a lot. He cultivated a nickname and personality though it. But it's just overkill with this author. Good stuff on his early career although kind of recycled stories about Dr. J's counsel and Moses Malone's influence. The recaps of the 1993-95 playoff runs were good. I hadn't realized the extent of his injuries in 1994-95. The author might've pointed out that in '94, top seed Seattle was bounced in the first round, thereby opening up things for a team like the Suns who couldn't take advantage. He also confuses KJ's mother's day big game - it was in '95, but in game 4. It's a predictably fawning book and of course there are quotes from the ever annoying, star banging, Michael Wilbon. The later part of the book on his media roles with TNT and CBS was very good. The book probably could've been 100 or so pages shorter.

[Wade Rials · Rating 4 out of 5]

Timothy Bella has written an incredible biography of Charles Barkley. As a lifelong Auburn fan and a fan who followed Barkley throughout my life in all his different roles I enjoyed the insight Bella offers. He is fair in his assessment and captures personal stories that illuminate highlights of Barkley’s journey. Bella’s story of the fight between Barkley and Shaq and what occurred afterwards is worth the cost of the book. Bella displays both the good and bad sides to Barkley’s life. I appreciate the way Bella displays the philanthropic heart of Charles Barkley that many may not be aware of. This aspect is important in understanding who this man truly is. As a fan of biography and Charles Barkley I highly recommend this book.

[Charlie Gessner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read a lot of biographies, but Barkley by Timothy Bella certainly is in my top tier. While some may believe they know Sir Charles from watching him on TNT, or remembering him from his playing days at Auburn or in the NBA, this book provides a COMPLETE picture of this athlete.

It’s all here: his time spent growing up in Leeds, Alabama, his fractured relationship with his father, his time at Auburn, all of his NBA stops, TNT, plus so much more.

Like any good book, the story is accentuated by Bella’s incredible storytelling. The book is well written, well researched, and it moves at a pace that covers just the right amount of detail for every facet of Barkley’s life.

If you love basketball and Barkley, you’ll thoroughly enjoy this read. I know I did.

[Dawne Mccurry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Charles Barkley!!! This biography takes a look behind the scenes of the larger than life personality. From his humble beginnings in Leeds, Alabama to his time at Auburn (War Eagle) to his hall of fame career and his hall of fame broadcasting career Charles is the same person on and off the court and TV. He says what he thinks and if you don’t like it…tough!!! Not to say that Charles hasn’t said many many cringeworthy things but his honesty and generosity and just all around greatness have made him beloved by so many!!!

[Rudy Dyck · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was OK. I enjoyed learning more about his early life. Charles does not contribute to the book but the author references his other three books along with many interviews are used for the book. Overall it simply lacked any special moments. It felt like a bland, chronological look at his life that wasn’t nearly as fun as Charles is. Nothing terrible but it took me longer to read because I never really hooked me.

3.5/5

[Shane Jones · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well-researched and informative, but some of the prose doesn't seem to give enough credit to the reader regarding basketball. The portion written about Barkley's actual playstyle travels too frequently over the simple plays of dunks and blocks, missing some of the multi-dimensional facets of Barkley's play, as well as some of his personality. Clearly made with a lot of effort, so I appreciate that, but the writing style wasn't for me.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good look at a controversial characters. Gives insight to Charles that many do not see. Bella gives us the good, the bad and the ugly in his life. I came away with a better understanding of who the real Charles is and the who the TV Charles is. Good book, whether you are an Auburn fan or you despise them I think you will have a different appreciation for Barkley.

[Scott Kedersha · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of my favorite athletes and sports personalities of all time. Enjoyed this book, hearing his story, upbringing, and journey in high school, college, NBA, and beyond.

The only reason this book isn't 5 stars for me is because Charles himself did not contribute to this book. The author relied on interviews and other sources/books by and about Charles from the past.

[Rob Warner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of insight into one of the greatest basketball players and greatest personalities ever. Barkley is a flawed man who does little to hide those flaws, but also listens to criticism and grows from mistakes. This book doesn't shy from documenting those mistakes. It also explores why Barkley became the man he is. Great stuff!

[Dave Cottenie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although it is up front about the lack of participation of Charles Barkley in the writing and research for this book, “Barkley” never seems too far from the man himself. Not overly salacious, but not hiding from controversy, “Barkley” is written in such a way that it seems Charles Barkley did participate and approve. A smooth read that is an insight into the ups and downs of the man, player and celebrity. Definitely worth reading.

[David Barney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was a fan of Charles Barkley when he played in the NBA. I am still a fan of his an enjoy what he does on TNT. He is a straight shooter and speaks his mind. Not everyone likes it, yet he speaks his mind. I enjoyed reading this book.

[Stuart Shiffman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting biography of a complex athlete. The book suffers a little bit from too much fawning over Barkley’s mishaps throughout his career. But overall a very good and entertaining account of Barkley’s career.

[Tyler Pellom · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fine book. Not much in the way of revelatory information an avid basketball fan wouldn’t know. I suppose that’s because Charles didn’t sit down to be interviewed.

It’s nice to get a reminder of the dominant player Chuck was before he became the goofy character on TV.

[Ed Richard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whether one is a fan or foe of Charles Wade Barkley, there is much to appreciate, consider, and understand of “Sir Charles” Author Timothy Bella takes one up and down the court that is Charles Barkley. It’s both a fast break and a buzzer beater!

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read both Charles' autobiography, and this biography. The author of "Barkley" did his research, and provided a gift of a perspective on Sir Charles, his playing career and his broadcasting career. Plus, an update to all of Sir Charles' public aspirations, trials, and tribulations.

[Jason Weber · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars

Really good biography on Charles Barkley. A lot of really good information in here… a lot of stuff I knew/remember, but I also learned a lot of new things!
That 93 Suns team probably should have gotten Chuck a ring, but he ran into #23.
Recommended to any Charles or NBA fan.

[Steve Kenney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Moves quickly through Barkley’s life. Written—either intentionally or sloppily— for people who follow basketball. The author often mentions important people without providing foundation of who these people are.

[Jacob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous look at one of the greatest basketball players of all time and also one of the most culturally known celebrities in the last 40 years. Barkley has a great life story and anyone would enjoy reading this.