Charles Barkley Refuses To Be The First To Apologize To Michael Jordan

Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan were once close friends during their NBA careers, with a bond that extended beyond the court.

Barkley made critical comments about Jordan's tenure as the owner of the Charlotte Hornets, suggesting that he lacked people around him who could challenge him.

Jordan reportedly took offense to Barkley's comments and the two have not spoken since.

Barkley believes that he has a responsibility to criticize others, including his friends, if it is warranted and he has no credibility if he doesn't do so.

Despite their close relationship, Barkley is unwilling to give Jordan a pass on his ownership of the Hornets.

Jordan's reported sensitivity to criticism may have contributed to the breakdown of his friendship with Barkley.

"And what I said, I think that he doesn't have enough people around him that are gonna tell him, 'No.' And he got really offended, and we haven't spoken. I'm gonna do my job because I have zero credibility if I criticize other people in the same boat and not criticize my best friend... I got an ego too, John. You can be great at something but that doesn't give you the right to be a jerk... He got my number."

Barkley is known for his honesty and is unwilling to compromise his principles for the sake of a friendship.

Jordan's possible sale of his majority stake in the Hornets may provide an avenue for reconciliation between the two former friends.Barkley is known for his honesty and is unwilling to compromise his principles for the sake of a friendship.