The NBA MVP award often sparks heated debates and discussions. Everyone seems to have their own take on who truly deserves this prestigious title.

One outspoken voice in this ongoing conversation is Charles Barkley, a former NBA player and winner of the 1993 NBA MVP award. Barkley never shies away from sharing his opinions, especially when it comes to basketball-related matters.

During a recent episode of Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay podcast, Barkley didn’t hold back his thoughts on the MVP selection process.

He expressed his discontent, stating that the award doesn’t always go to the best player in the league but rather to the best player on the best team. Barkley highlighted a prime example, arguing that Steve Nash winning the MVP over Shaquille O’Neal and Kobe Bryant didn’t sit well with him.

Closest MVP Race Ever Predicted by Charles Barkley

However, Barkley also acknowledged instances where he believed the MVP was rightfully awarded. In 2011, Derrick Rose secured the MVP title, and Barkley deemed it fair due to the Chicago Bulls’ impressive record that season.

Fast forward to the present, and Barkley’s attention is focused on the 2024 NBA MVP race. This year’s competition has been particularly intense.

With reigning MVP Joel Embiid sidelined due to injury and the 65-game rule, contenders like Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander have emerged as strong candidates.

Despite the formidable competition, Barkley has thrown his support behind a somewhat unexpected contender: Jalen Brunson.

Barkley commended Brunson’s exceptional performance for the New York Knicks throughout the season. Despite facing challenges such as injuries to key players like Mitchell Robinson and Julius Randle, as well as OG Anunoby’s absence for a period, Brunson managed to lead the Knicks to the second seed in the standings.

Barkley’s prediction for this year’s MVP race is bold. He anticipates it will be the closest race in NBA history. With contenders like Jokic and Gilgeous-Alexander boasting identical records this season, Barkley’s forecast might just prove accurate.

Barkley’s insights shed light on the complexities of the NBA MVP selection process and the factors that influence it. His prediction for this year’s MVP race adds an extra layer of excitement to an already thrilling season.