Charles Barkley, the NBA Hall of Famer and TNT analyst, recently revealed a surprising and humorous grudge against NHL player Seth Jones during an NHL on TNT Altcast. The incident occurred on June 20, 2024, during a discussion that shifted from Barkley admiring hockey players to unexpectedly voicing his dislike for Jones, who plays for the Florida Panthers.
Barkley’s grudge is tied to his experiences with Seth’s father, Ronald “Popeye” Jones, a former NBA player known for his competitiveness. Barkley candidly shared that throughout his own NBA career, Popeye was one of the few players who consistently gave him a tough time on the court. “I could hold my own. But Popeye Jones? He kicked my ass every single time. I don’t even know why,” Barkley said, evoking laughs and surprise from the panel and audience.
Though Barkley’s remark about hating Seth Jones was lighthearted, it highlighted the unexpected connections between sports and how legacies of past athletes can influence current players. Seth Jones, now making a name for himself in hockey and a Stanley Cup winner, has gained an intriguing link to the NBA through Barkley’s amusing anecdote.
This story serves as a reminder of the unique relationships and rivalries that develop in the world of sports, where a history can transcend different leagues and create unexpected ties between athletes from entirely different backgrounds. Barkley’s candid and entertaining take gives fans a glimpse into the playful side of sportsmanship, reminding us all of the humor that can arise from past rivalries.