Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan bury the hatchet after 15-year feud

Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan have ended their 15-year feud after reconciling in April, the Hall of Fame teammates-turned-rivals confirmed this week.

What happened between Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan?

The two basketball legends spoke for the first time in over a decade after mutual friend Vince Coleman put them on the phone. Barkley shared the details on *Pardon My Take*, recalling his opening line to Jordan: *“What’s up motherf-ker?”* Jordan fired back with the same joke, and the pair chatted before agreeing to play golf together soon.

Barkley admitted both were *“selfish and stupid”* for letting the rift drag on. *“We were great friends, brothers for a long time,”* he said. Jordan is currently out of the country but the two plan to meet at Jordan’s golf course when he returns.

How did the feud start?

The split began in 2012 when Barkley criticized Jordan’s ownership of the Charlotte Bobcats-now the Hornets-on *Waddle and Silvy*. *“I don’t think Michael has hired enough people around him who will disagree,”* Barkley said then, arguing Jordan’s inner circle avoided tough feedback to keep his favor.

Barkley’s remarks aired just months after Jordan sold the team in 2023, ending his 15-year run as owner.

Why this matters for Charles Barkley

The reconciliation caps a long personal and professional rivalry that defined two of the NBA’s most dominant eras. Barkley’s comments on *Pardon My Take* show a lighter side of the former MVPs, who once clashed over ownership, legacy, and leadership.

Barkley’s excitement to face Jordan on the golf course hints at a thawed relationship. *“I’m really looking forward to putting my game up against him,”* he said.

What comes next for the pair?

Barkley and Jordan will meet at Jordan’s golf course in Florida as soon as the latter returns from abroad. The Hall of Famers’ planned outing could mark the start of a renewed friendship-or at least a few rounds of trash talk on the green.

Barkley first teased the reunion in June on Chicago radio, where he credited Coleman with forcing the call. *“Vince Coleman’s the person who’s responsible,”* he said. *“We talked for a couple of minutes.”*

The golf date remains unconfirmed but Barkley insists it’s happening. *“As soon as we get a chance, we’re gonna get together,”* he added.