Charles Barkley is a retired American professional basketball player and current television analyst. Known by nicknames such as "Sir Charles" and "The Round Mound of Rebound," Barkley is celebrated for his impressive career in the NBA and his larger-than-life personality. He was born on February 20, 1963, in Leeds, Alabama. Barkley played college basketball at Auburn University, where he became a standout player despite his unconventional size for a forward. He was drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers as the fifth overall pick in the 1984 NBA Draft. Over his 16-year career, he also played for the Phoenix Suns and the Houston Rockets. Barkley was an 11-time NBA All-Star and won the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award in 1993. He was known for his exceptional rebounding, scoring, and playmaking abilities, becoming one of the few players to achieve over 20,000 points, 10,000 rebounds, and 4,000 assists in his career. He also won two Olympic gold medals with the U.S. men's basketball team in 1992 and 1996. After retiring in 2000, Barkley transitioned to a successful career as an NBA analyst on TNT's "Inside the NBA," where his candid and often humorous commentary has made him a fan favorite. He has also authored several books and remains a prominent figure in sports media.