Despite being an Auburn alum, NBA legend and TNT analyst Charles Barkley remains a popular figure in Alabama and now he’s showing support for Crimson Tide football. While attending the Regions Tradition Pro-Am Golf Tournament, Barkley crossed paths with Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer and offered genuine praise for the second-year coach.
Barkley has long spoken highly of Alabama football, often complimenting former coach Nick Saban as well. And it’s not hard to see why even a rival alum can’t ignore the program’s historic dominance, particularly during the Saban era. Alabama has also beaten Barkley’s Auburn Tigers in five straight Iron Bowls.
Now, it seems DeBoer is winning over outsiders just like Saban once did.
DeBoer Earning Respect But Still Has Work To Do
Barkley isn’t the only notable name backing DeBoer. College football commentator Paul Finebaum has also applauded DeBoer’s strong offseason, especially his work in the transfer portal and his ability to manage sky-high expectations heading into 2025.
While the national media and even rival fans are starting to believe in DeBoer, the coach still faces skepticism from parts of the Alabama fanbase. A 9-4 record in his debut season left many fans disappointed and questioning whether DeBoer is the right leader for a program with championship expectations.
Even with a strong offseason and visible support from athletic director Greg Byrne, DeBoer knows that talk only goes so far. To truly win over fans in Tuscaloosa, he’ll need to deliver results on the field in 2025.
Pressure Comes With the Job
DeBoer understood the pressure that comes with coaching Alabama when he accepted the role but living through it is a different story. Last season’s criticism, including calls for his job after just four losses, was a harsh introduction to the Crimson Tide’s sky-high standards.
While he’s not on the hot seat yet, 2025 is a pivotal year. DeBoer has the roster to compete at the highest level. Now, it’s about proving to Alabama fans that he can carry on the program’s legacy of excellence.
