Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: WEDNESDAY, June 9, 1993 TAG: 9306090138
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: PHOENIX LENGTH: Medium
Tonight, Barkley and the Phoenix Suns get their first lesson from Jordan and the Chicago Bulls about what it's like to play in the NBA Finals.
"This was the first year I've had the limelight like Michael and Magic," Barkley said after practice Tuesday for Game 1. "I talked to them last summer about what it was like. This is the first time I've really experienced it. Basically, it was because the Phoenix Suns were winning."
Barkley, for years one of the NBA's best and most outspoken players, got a taste of what Jordan's life outside of basketball is like when reports linked him with rock star Madonna. Jordan has stopped talking to the media in the wake of what he believes is unfair reporting of his gambling habits.
"That stuff doesn't bother me, although it bothers my in-laws to be called at home and asked about Madonna," Barkley said. "I have more pressing matters to worry about."
Jordan has proved time and again that he can put aside distractions and play at a championship level. Barkley will be put to that test starting with tonight's opener.
Barkley said the Bulls' status as two-time defending champions is not an advantage against Phoenix, which is making its first appearance in the NBA Finals since 1976.
"We don't believe that we're underdogs," Barkley said. "Whoever says we're underdogs or whoever picks the betting line hasn't played basketball. We had the best record in the NBA [during the regular season]. We're confident in our ability. Being in the finals for the first time doesn't mean anything. The Bulls won it the first time they went to the finals. It didn't bother them."
The finalists split their two regular-season games, each losing at home.
"We're good and they're good, and we'll see who's better," Barkley said.
Jordan and Barkley share more than stardom. They have a common interest in golf, played on the Olympic team together and endorse some of the same products.
"Of course, people are making this out to be a Michael vs. Charles series," Barkley said."He's my friend, but it's not special to me that he's here. I'm just glad that I'm here. I've waited a long time to be here."
Barkley said most of the NBA players are "good guys, except for the Pistons. There are no teams that you really hate. But you don't have to hate your opponent. I think all that's important is that you have better players."
Barkley said that with a 2-3-2 home-court format in this series, it's important the team with the first two games at home protects its advantage before going on the road for three games.
"You don't want them thinking they can finish off the series at home," he said.
by CNB