The Last Dance: Charles Barkley Keeps Saying This Is His Last Year On 'Inside The NBA' And That He's 'Taking A Step Back From Public Life'

I don't want to believe this but Charles Barkley keeps doubling down on this. Look, Charles Barkley is one of the, if not the, most entertaining man on television. You see him talk, you listen. You see him do anything, you watch. He's funny, he can be insightful and he's the important key on the best show on television. It's all based around Ernie Johnson being the guy trying to maintain control, Chuck and Shaq going at each other and Kenny Smith trying to analyze games. It's perfect. 

What I don't like to hear is stepping away from public life. It's one thing to retire and we all know shows end. But, you can't step away from public life if you're Chuck. I get it. You've been in the public eye for 40 years basically now. But America needs you. We need entertainment and Charles Barkley is one of the last on television to say exactly what's on his mind and without a care in the world. He doesn't care who he pisses off. He doesn't care if it makes people angry or scream at him. He's just going to say it and move. You don't like it, he'll dare you to tell him. 

I just don't know how much I believe this is the last year. I need Ernie Johnson to tell me this is the last year. That's when I'll know it's true. I do believe that whenever Barkley retires he will step away from the public life. He'll pop up to do some NHL stuff and golf, but he's just going to hang out and have a good time. If it's the last ride, then we have to enjoy it. We'll never see a sports show like this again. Not with this crew and longevity.