On this date in 1999, Rockets forward Charles Barkley’s storied career came to an end in Philadelphia, when he attempted to block a shot by the Sixers’ Tyrone Hill. Barkley, who scored 23,755 points (13th in NBA history) and grabbed 12,545 rebounds (14th in NBA history), tore the left quadriceps tendon away from the kneecap in the first quarter of Houston’s 83-73 loss to Philadelphia. After the game, Barkley held a news conference and paid tribute to former teammates Julius Erving, Maurice Cheeks, Andrew Toney, and Bobby Jones, who Barkley said initiated him in the ways of the NBA in his early years with the 76ers. Barkley would return to play token minutes in the last game of the regular season, which would then be the final game of his career.
Got a great basketball blog post that you want featured on Hoops Rumors? Send it to Zach at HoopsLinks@gmail.com. Here’s this week’s look around the blogosphere..
- Toronto Sports Daily has 12 reasons why a small market finals would be great.
- Hardwood Paroxysm talks Derrick Williams and expectations.
- The Brooklyn Game went on the YES Network to discuss the current state of the Nets.
- Posting and Toasting wants to know what happens if Mike Woodson gets canned.
- Raptors HQ says the Raptors showed a lack of identity in their loss to Phoenix.
- Orlando Magic Daily talks Maurice Harkless and more on their latest podcast.
- Red94 wonders if Thad Young is really an upgrade.
- Peachtree Hoops explains the Hawks’ options when it comes to the Nets’ picks.
If you have a suggestion for this feature, email Zach at HoopsLinks@gmail.com.