When it comes to giving Joel Embiid credit, not every NBA legend is willing to dish it. Former Philadelphia 76ers player Charles Barkley doesn’t fall under that umbrella.
But when it comes to the debate of who is the better Sixer between Embiid and himself, Barkley chooses the latter due to one reason: health.
“Joel Embiid… I would have loved to see Embiid stay healthy for 10-15 years,” Barkley told 97.5 The Fanatic on Thursday. “Man, it would have been incredible. He is a better, more talented player than me. But my ability to stay healthy gives me the edge.”
Charles Barkley Is A 76ers Great
GettyCAMDEN, NJ – SEPTEMBER 13: Charles Barkley speaks at the podium prior to his sculpture being unveiled at the Philadelphia 76ers training facility on September 13, 2019 in Camden, New Jersey. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Back in 1984, Barkley was the fifth-overall pick out of Auburn. He landed with the Sixers.
Barkley spent eight years playing for the 76ers. He averaged 23.3 points, 11.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1.0 blocks.
In six out of eight years, Barkley led the 76ers to the playoffs. Unfortunately, he was not a part of any title runs for the Sixers. Still, Barkley went down as a Sixers great. The legend joined the Phoenix Suns after his time with the 76ers. That stint would last four years. Barkley’s final four seasons of his 16-year career ended with the Houston Rockets.
Joel Embiid Is On His Way
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – DECEMBER 07: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers smiles during the first half against the Los Angeles Lakers at Xfinity Mobile Arena on December 07, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
While Embiid has a lot of experience under his belt, he still has some time left.
Currently, the star center is in his 10th playing year. While he missed plenty of time (missing the first two seasons of his career), Embiid has an impressive resume. Since 2017, he’s been a part of seven All-Star teams. Embiid was also an MVP finalist on three different occasions, winning the award in 2023.
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JANUARY 24: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers celebrates a basket during the second half against the New York Knicks at Xfinity Mobile Arena on January 24, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
The veteran center also has five All-NBA nods, along with three All-Defensive nods. Embiid was also a scoring champion in 2022 and 2023.
Although injuries have affected Embiid’s availability throughout his career, he is still one of the most accomplished Sixers, and Barkley clearly has a lot of respect for the former third-overall pick.