What Charles Barkley told Kenny Smith after he gave his NBA championship rings

Kenny Smith explains why he gave away his championship rings

The moment came during a segment of Inside the NBA, as the panel discussed what championship memorabilia means to different players.

Kenny Smith told the panel that he no longer owns either of his NBA championship rings. The former point guard explained that he gave one to his father and the other to his brother, believing both men played vital roles in his path to success.

“I gave both of my championship rings away. I gave them to the people who were the reasons I got them.

“I gave the first to my father and the second to my brother. Without them, I never would have won them so it’s only fair they get them.”

Charles Barkley adds his trademark humour

As the studio broke into laughter, Charles Barkley responded with a quip that summed up his quick wit.

Without missing a beat, he joked that if Smith really wanted to credit those most responsible for his titles, someone else might deserve the rings more.

“If that’s the case, you should have given both of them to Hakeem.” The remark, referencing Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon — the Houston Rockets’ dominant centre during their championship runs — had the panel and audience laughing throughout the segment.

The exchange was another example of what makes Inside the NBA one of the most beloved shows in sports television.

Between Kenny Smith’s sincerity and Charles Barkley’s humour, the segment balanced heart and comedy in a way only their crew can manage.