"I'd kick his a—s" - Charles Barkley brutally assessed Barack Obama's chances in a 1-on-1

Charles Barkley can get away with almost anything, even when it arguably involves the most powerful man on the planet. Known for his candid and outspoken nature, the 1993 Phoenix Suns MVP refuses to change no matter what, which is also what makes him so beloved and endearing. Chuck is no doubt one of the funniest people to watch on television.

Beyond the jokes and messing around, Barkley also has a serious side, especially when it comes to politics and social issues. There's a lot more to the Chuckster than basketball, which is also why he has close connections with people from other walks of life. This also includes the 44th President of the United States of America, Barack Obama .

President Obama has been an avid basketball fan since childhood. He played on the varsity team at Hawaii Punahou School and was part of the 1979 state championship team. Although his political career took precedence over the years, the former POTUS always found a way to stay connected to the hardwood.

So it's no surprise that Barack shares close ties with some of the NBA's biggest names, including Charles, who once shared some interesting insights into President Obama's basketball skills.

"He's a lefty. He always goes left. And if you just stand there, I'm not sure if you were to open up the right side, he could go right at all," said Chuck while addressing the 44th POTUS during a 2010 appearance on TBS Conan.

As for a 1-on-1 matchup, Barkley made it clear the former U.S. president had no chance against him.

"Oh yeah, I mean, I'm an old fat guy now, but I'd kick his a—s," said Barkley, who has developed a close rapport with the former President over time.

The two stalwarts of sports and politics first met in 2005 when Barkley was promoting his book, "Who's Afraid of a Large Black Man?" During this time, he had the opportunity to interview Obama, then the newly elected Senator from Illinois.

The interview focused on sensitive issues like racism in the United States. The interaction left Barkley highly impressed, who eventually became one of Obama's most vocal supporters. A prime example of this was Chuck shooting an endorsement video for the former President as he ran for president in 2008.

The two met again for a sit-down in 2014 ahead of the 63rd All-Star Game. However, this time the discussion centered more on basketball, whether it was the GOAT debate between Michael Jordan and LeBron James, or the President getting time for pickup ball. They also shed some light on the country's political situation.

As time passed, Barkley and Obama remained in touch, collaborating on various social and community initiatives. These include "My Brother's Keeper Alliance," an initiative aimed at improving the lives of young men of color. They have also been instrumental in supporting HBCUs through donations, grants, and scholarships.

The 2021 NBC Special "Roll Up Your Sleeves" was yet another example, featuring the former POTUS teaming up with Barkley and Shaquille O'Neal to educate communities about the importance of COVID-19 vaccination. Chuck has also made financial contributions to the Obama Foundation on multiple occasions.

Given their philanthropic nature, it would be a sight to behold if Barkley and Obama could host a 1-on-1 with the proceeds going to charity.

This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Oct 7, 2026, where it first appeared in the Off The Court section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.