Charles Barkley is a former professional basketball player. He is now part of a television crew that covers NBA games. Charles Barkley is known as the “Round Mound of Sound”. He does not hesitate to state his opinion and his comments often cover far more than basketball. When Charles Barkley says something outrageous, it receives huge media coverage.

However, this act of kindness by Mr Barkley received limited media attention. Charles Barkley picked up the university tuition for a student who was struggling to meet school expenses:

“…During a visit to Saloon last summer, Charles Barkley asked Abate how he was enjoying teaching, and was disappointed to learn that Abate had still not returned to Temple because of problems securing financial aid. Abate, 28, of South Philly, started at Temple in 1997, months after graduating from St. John Neumann High.

Sir Charles told Abate he would like to help him with his tuition, and Abate wasn’t sure how to respond. Barkley didn’t give him much time, telling Abate that he had the length of Barkley’s meal to decide. Abate wisely accepted.”

link: Sir Charles? To one lucky busboy, he’s Saint Charles

It is just an extraordinary kindness. It was not for the public attention. Charles Barkley can generate that with a few outrageous comments. This was one person helping out another; and Charles Barkley deserves huge kudos. Well done, Mr Barkley.

Catherine Forsythe