A regrettable incident at Chicago’s United Center has drawn criticism from Charles Barkley. On January 12, during a halftime ceremony where the Bulls honored the 1995-96 championship team, Thelma Krause, the widow of former Bulls executive Jerry Krause, faced boos as she represented her late husband’s posthumous induction into the franchise’s Ring of Honor.
The incident marred what should have been a special night for the franchise, prompting immediate social media backlash against the booing fans. Thelma Krause was visibly shaken, and the absence of key figures like Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, and Dennis Rodman further fueled the controversy.
Charles Barkley addressed the issue on “Inside the NBA,” expressing his disappointment with the events in Chicago. He criticized the booing fans and the absence of Jordan, Pippen, and Rodman, stating it was a disgrace to the legacy of the Chicago Bulls.
Barkley emphasized the wrongness of the fans’ actions, particularly the impact on Mrs. Krause, who was left in tears. He called for an apology to her, highlighting the lack of respect shown to Jerry Krause’s legacy.
“I want to be very careful here because Chicago, I love that city, but what happened in Chicago the other night was a disgrace,” Barkley began.
“Having his wife cry like that. That was wrong on so many levels. Michael (Jordan) and Scottie (Pippen) and Dennis (Rodman) not showing up — that was wrong. It was a complete disgrace to the legacy of the Chicago Bulls.”
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The Bulls’ CEO, Michael Reinsdorf, later offered a statement asserting that Jerry Krause’s legacy deserves celebration and respect. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, who was present for the ceremony, condemned the booing as “absolutely shameful” and expressed disappointment and sadness for the Krause family.
Bulls fans are evidently displeased with the current condition of the organization.
