Last Updated on January 24, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake

Here’s a summary of Charles Barkley’s contract history throughout his NBA career:

Philadelphia 76ers (1984–1992)

  • 1984 NBA Draft: Selected 5th overall by the Philadelphia 76ers.
  • Rookie Contract:
    • Signed a 4-year deal worth approximately $2 million.
    • Earned about $307,000 in his rookie season, gradually increasing over the term.
  • Contract Extension:
    • Signed a significant extension in the late 1980s with the 76ers.
    • By 1990-1991, his salary rose to over $3 million per season, making him one of the team’s highest-paid players.

Phoenix Suns (1992–1996)

  • Trade to Phoenix:
    • Traded to the Suns in 1992 in exchange for multiple players.
    • Signed a 5-year, $19 million contract with Phoenix.
    • Earned around $3.8 million per season during his prime years with the Suns.
  • 1992–1993 Season:
    • Barkley won NBA MVP and led the Suns to the NBA Finals, solidifying his worth during this contract period.

Houston Rockets (1996–2000)

  • Trade to Houston:
    • Traded to the Rockets in 1996 for a package including Sam Cassell and Robert Horry.
  • Salary Cut (1999–2000):
    • Barkley agreed to take a massive pay cut in the 1999–2000 season to help the Rockets sign free agents.
    • Earned $1 million in his final NBA season.
  • Peak Salaries with the Rockets:
    • Barkley earned over $9 million annually in his earlier seasons with Houston before the pay cut.

Career Earnings:

  • Estimated total career earnings: $40–45 million from salary alone.
  • While substantial for the era, Barkley’s earnings are modest compared to today’s NBA contracts.

Post-NBA Career:

  • Barkley transitioned to a highly lucrative broadcasting career with TNT’s “Inside the NBA”, where he has reportedly earned $6–10 million annually in recent years.

Charles Barkley’s willingness to sacrifice salary for team success and his enduring personality have cemented his legacy both on and off the court.