Even America’s top stars know the truth about Democrats.
Basketball Hall of Famer Charles Barkley has once again made his disdain for San Francisco clear, announcing that he has no intention of attending the upcoming NBA All-Star Game, which will be hosted at the Oracle Arena in the city. Barkley was discussing the All-Star candidacy of Detroit Pistons star Cade Cunningham during a segment on TNT’s Inside the NBA when he openly expressed his opposition to the city.
While acknowledging Cunningham’s potential selection to the All-Star team, Barkley stated that he would not be attending the event in San Francisco, referring to the city in unflattering terms. He went on to dismiss the idea that San Francisco is a beautiful place, mocking its reputation and pointing out the city’s ongoing struggles with cleanliness and safety. Barkley’s comments were a direct challenge to anyone who romanticizes the city, as he made it clear that he would not be swayed by its allure.
This isn’t the first time Barkley has criticized San Francisco. In fact, he’s made similar remarks in the past, even questioning whether the cold of Indianapolis, where the All-Star Game was held the previous year, was preferable to the challenges posed by the city’s crime and homelessness issues. His remarks sparked backlash from some, including Warriors star Draymond Green, who called Barkley “crazy” and said he wasn’t welcome in San Francisco. Other figures, including WNBA star Candace Parker, also defended the city, but Barkley was unmoved by their responses, doubling down on his stance.
Barkley’s comments highlight the growing concerns about urban decline in some of the nation’s largest cities, particularly those with liberal leadership. San Francisco, in particular, has faced significant challenges in recent years with rising homelessness, crime, and drug use. Newly elected Mayor Daniel Lurie has vowed to tackle these issues, focusing on improving public safety, addressing the affordability crisis, and finding solutions to the city’s behavioral health problems.
For many, Barkley’s blunt critique of San Francisco serves as a reflection of the frustration felt by those who see cities with progressive leadership struggling to maintain order and livability. His comments resonate with individuals who are concerned about the direction of urban policy in cities that have experienced rapid declines in safety and quality of life.
WATCH:
"I’m not going. I’m not going to that rat-infested place out in San Francisco…San Francisco is not a beautiful city." – Charles Barkley pic.twitter.com/7fXWMCV5um
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) January 17, 2025