In a move that has sent shockwaves throughout the college basketball world, Auburn University has announced plans to erect a statue of Charles Barkley at Neville Arena in honor of his immense legacy and the lasting impact he has had on the Auburn basketball program. The announcement, made by Auburn officials earlier this week, signifies a historic moment for the university, acknowledging one of its most iconic athletes and a figure whose influence reaches far beyond the basketball court.
Barkley, a native of Leeds, Alabama, attended Auburn from 1981 to 1984, where he quickly became one of the most dominant and electrifying players in college basketball. His time with the Auburn Tigers transformed the program into a national contender, setting the stage for the team’s success in the years that followed. Even more than his on-court accomplishments, Barkley’s larger-than-life personality and outspoken nature made him a national figure and a beloved figure among Auburn fans. The statue, which will be unveiled at Neville Arena next fall, will serve as a permanent reminder of the tremendous legacy Barkley left at Auburn University.
Barkley’s career at Auburn was a whirlwind of incredible performances and jaw-dropping moments. The 6-foot-6 power forward had an innate ability to dominate the game in a way few players ever have. He earned All-American honors in his final season at Auburn, averaging 14.0 points, 9.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. His play during the 1984 NCAA Tournament, which helped lead Auburn to the Sweet 16, further cemented his status as one of the best players in college basketball. Despite playing for a team that was not traditionally seen as a powerhouse, Barkley’s skill and tenacity on the court made Auburn basketball relevant on the national stage.
Upon leaving college, Barkley would go on to have a Hall of Fame career in the NBA. Selected as the fifth overall pick in the 1984 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers, Barkley’s impact was immediate. His combination of size, athleticism, and skill made him a nightmare for defenders, and his ability to dominate both ends of the floor became the hallmark of his game. Barkley would go on to be an 11-time NBA All-Star, a league MVP in 1993, and a key figure on the Phoenix Suns’ 1993 NBA Finals team. His career achievements include two Olympic gold medals and a spot in the Basketball Hall of Fame. However, it’s not just his individual accomplishments that have earned him adoration from fans and players alike—it’s his unapologetic, bold personality and his willingness to speak out on important social issues that have truly set him apart as a cultural figure.
Auburn’s decision to honor Barkley in this way is a testament to the university’s recognition of how deeply his legacy is woven into the fabric of Auburn’s sports culture. The timing of the announcement aligns perfectly with a period of resurgence for Auburn athletics. Under head coach Bruce Pearl, the Auburn men’s basketball program has become one of the elite programs in the SEC and the nation, consistently competing for NCAA Tournament berths and achieving historic success. The statue will be a symbol of the program’s deep roots and its connection to the past, while also representing the bright future that lies ahead.
The statue will be placed outside Neville Arena, which has become the home of Auburn basketball in recent years. Neville Arena has been the site of countless thrilling moments in Auburn basketball history, including its run to the Final Four in 2019, and it will now serve as the perfect backdrop for a tribute to one of the school’s most beloved figures. The unveiling ceremony will be a highly anticipated event, with former Auburn players, coaches, and fans coming together to celebrate Barkley’s impact on the program. It will be a moment of pride not only for Auburn alumni but for basketball fans across the country, many of whom hold Barkley in the highest regard as one of the sport’s most entertaining and influential figures.
Barkley’s influence on Auburn basketball cannot be overstated. During his time as a player, he helped lay the groundwork for future success. His commitment to Auburn and his leadership on the court set a standard for future generations of players to strive toward. Many current Auburn players and coaches point to Barkley’s tenure as a major source of inspiration, and his legacy continues to inspire the team today.
In addition to his on-court success, Barkley’s contributions to Auburn go beyond basketball. He has consistently supported the university throughout his career, both financially and through his public advocacy for Auburn’s programs. Barkley has never shied away from expressing his love for his alma mater, often publicly praising Auburn for its role in shaping him as a person and athlete. His enduring connection to the school is something that Auburn fans treasure deeply, and this statue is the ultimate acknowledgment of his contributions to the program and to the broader community.
For Auburn University, the decision to erect a statue in Barkley’s honor is not just about recognizing his past achievements—it’s about ensuring that future generations of Auburn students, athletes, and fans understand the profound impact he had on the school and its athletics programs. The statue will stand as a symbol of the hard work, determination, and heart that Barkley brought to Auburn, inspiring those who follow in his footsteps to aim for greatness.
As news of the statue began to spread, reactions from Auburn fans and alumni were overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed their excitement and pride over the decision, with some fans calling it long overdue. “Charles Barkley is Auburn basketball,” said one fan. “He’s the reason so many of us fell in love with this program in the first place. He gave us something to believe in, and now we’re finally giving him the honor he deserves.” Another fan added, “There’s no one more deserving of this honor than Chuck. His legacy goes beyond basketball; he’s a true Auburn icon.”
Barkley himself has expressed his gratitude and surprise at the gesture, humbly acknowledging that he never expected such an honor. “I’m incredibly proud of my time at Auburn and everything we accomplished there,” Barkley said in a statement. “To have a statue erected in my honor is a dream come true, and I’m beyond thankful to Auburn for recognizing my contributions to the program. I owe so much to this university, and I’m honored to be a part of its history.”
The statue will be more than just a tribute to Barkley’s greatness as a player—it will serve as a testament to his lasting impact on Auburn University and the game of basketball. As Auburn continues to build on the success of its athletics programs, the statue will stand as a reminder of where the program started and the extraordinary journey that has led to where it is today. The unveiling of the Charles Barkley statue at Neville Arena will undoubtedly be a moment to remember for Auburn fans, alumni, and anyone who has followed the incredible career of one of basketball’s all-time greats.