Charles Barkley’s Emotional Memory of Losing to Michael Jordan

Charles Barkley has always been outspoken, but his latest revelation about Michael Jordan was raw and deeply personal. On the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast, the Hall of Famer recalled a heartbreaking moment from the 1993 NBA Finals.

“I remember going home, and my daughter was crying,” Barkley said. “She told me, ‘Dad, you said you were going to win.’”

The 1993 Finals Heartbreak

That year, Barkley was the league MVP, leading the Phoenix Suns against Jordan’s Chicago Bulls. Despite a huge Game 6 performance — 21 points and 17 rebounds — Barkley’s Suns lost 99–98 after John Paxson’s clutch three-pointer. Jordan, meanwhile, averaged a staggering 41 points per game.

“He’s Better Than Me” — A Rare Admission

The loss forced Barkley to make an honest admission to his daughter:
“I’ve never said this about anyone before — but he’s better than me.”

Barkley Still Ranks Jordan Over LeBron

Decades later, Barkley remains firm. On Don’t @ Me with Dan Dakich, he ranked LeBron James just seventh all-time, behind Jordan, Kareem, Russell, Wilt, Oscar, and Kobe. For Barkley, dominance at your peak matters more than career totals — and Jordan still sets the standard.