Draymond Green apologizes for Barkley jab after Warriors feud
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green apologized for comments targeting Charles Barkley's late-career performance with the Houston Rockets. The exchange followed Barkley's claim that the Warriors' championship era has ended. Green clarified his intent on "The Draymond Green Show," denying any aim to disrespect the NBA Hall of Famer.
Barkley, on May 6, declared the Warriors' title window closed due to the age of their core, including Green and Stephen Curry. He suggested Green would need to leave Golden State for another championship chance. Green responded on "Inside the NBA" on Wednesday, saying, "I think the goal is just to not look like you in the Houston Rockets uniform," referencing Barkley's four-year stint there from 1996-97 until his 2000 retirement.
Green, who turned 36 in March, addressed the backlash days later. "The reason that I would even say that is what Chuck makes fun about in his career is actually the last 2 years in Houston," he said. He added, "Everybody tried to make it like this whole ‘Ahh man Draymond think he better than Chuck’… the disrespect ain’t the intent so if that’s the way it’s viewed as public disrespect, I can gladly public apologize."
Barkley dismissed the remarks on Arizona Sports 98.7 FM's "Bickley and Marotta" show and "The Dan Patrick Show." "Draymond is a good player. We’re not on the same level … I can hear, but I don’t have to respond every time somebody says something about me," Barkley said. He acknowledged regretting his final two Rockets seasons but noted he did not turn down the contract money. Barkley retired at age 36 after 16 NBA seasons.
