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Charles Barkley teared up reacting to trolls mocking young NFL prospect
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- Charles Barkley teared up reacting to trolls mocking young NFL prospect
(© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)
It's no secret how Charles Barkley feels about social media, especially when it comes to the so-called trolls. However, the NBA Hall of Famer did make his Instagram debut in 2024. While many called out his contradictory stance, his rationale was strictly business and promotional.
The Chuckster is a majority owner of Redmont Distilling Company, which is also the primary reason behind his social media presence. Many assumed that he would eventually give in to the droomscrolling addiction and followers game, but that never turned out to be the case.
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On the contrary, he may even be more anti-social media now. During a recent episode of the Steam Room, Barkley sounded off on those trolling 2026 NFL Draft prospect and Texas A&M wide receiver KC Concepcion for having a speech impediment. Chuck was beyond disgusted.
The incident affected Barkley so deeply that he couldn't hold back his tears. It was indeed emotional to see The Chuckster like this, who is known for bringing smiles to everyone's faces.
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"I didn't want to get on social media cause I think it's where sc-mbags go to die or feel important. I truly mean that from the bottom of my heart. I think it's where sc-mbags go to act like they're important and significant or have an opinion on everything," said the former Phoenix Suns MVP, adding how the trolls had reached a new low for him.
Chuck got emotional
Addressing the recent incident involving certain sections on social media trolling Concepcion for his speech impairment, Barkley opened up about how he felt about the entire situation.
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"I'm getting emotional now because I was so pissed when I heard about it. So, this kid has a stuttering problem and a speech impediment. It was tough to listen to because I was watching it when it was happening. And then I saw some of my friends who know why I hate social media sent me some of the comments that you people were making about this kid," stated Barkley, who couldn't hold his tears any longer.
Charles added that the kid had to eventually come out and address the trolling, mentioning how he had been working on it. Besides, it must have already been tough for him to gather the courage to speak in front of a live audience. Acknowledging how there was nothing one could do to stop these trolls, Chuck wished nothing but the best for KC.
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KC wants to be a role model for others
Displaying the spirit of a champion already, Concepcion had the perfect response to all the online hecklers and haters. Rather than letting such malicious minds affect him, the former ACC Rookie of the Year saw it as an opportunity to inspire others who suffered from the same problem and were hesitant to speak about it.
"I was thinking about not going up there, you know, but I want to be a role model for those who are not able to speak in front of large crowds," said KC.
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Winning hearts all over, it was no doubt heartwarming to see a young kid display such wisdom, something that must have touched Barkley deeply as well. That said, though an essential part of our lives today, social media can be really ruthless at times, given how nameless and faceless people can get away with saying whatever they want on most occasions.
This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Mar 17, 2026, where it first appeared in the Off The Court section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
