Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley are both famous for their fondness of gambling.

Michael Franzese thinks Charles Barkley, and not Michael Jordan, is the one with the real gambling problem. (VladTV)

In a revealing interview, former mobster Michael Franzese opened up about the gambling habits of NBA legends Michael Jordan and Charles Barkley. Franzese, who has witnessed the highs and lows of gambling, shared his insights on who he believes is the real gambling addict between the two basketball icons.

During a discussion on VladTV, Franzese, known for his past involvement in organized crime, delved into the nature of gambling addiction. He contrasted Jordan’s well-known love for gambling with Barkley’s notorious losses, highlighting the difference in how their habits affected their lives.

Charles Barkley, he said ‘I don’t have a gambling problem’. He lost ten million dollars at the table, but he doesn’t have a gambling problem. You lose ten million dollars you got a gambling problem trust me on that.

He contrasted this with Michael Jordan‘s ‘competition problem.’ Franzese doesn’t feel that Jordan has a gambling problem because it doesn’t affect his lifestyle. For most with a problem, gambling wreaks havoc in their lives which is obviously a huge issue.

Jordan’s gambling is more about the thrill of competition than financial gain as elaborated by Michael Franzese. This insight offers a different angle on Jordan’s well-publicized betting habits.

Charles Barkley admitted he lost about $10M due to gambling

In a remarkably open interview with ESPN, Charles Barkley, the renowned NBA star turned TNT analyst, shared his own struggles with gambling. Barkley disclosed that his gambling escapades have cost him an estimated $10 million, a revelation that underscores the gravity of his struggle.

Charles Barkley admitted he lost around $10M in gambling (Image via Captain Charity)

Barkley’s honesty in discussing his gambling issues sheds light on the complex nature of the addiction. He spoke about his attempts to moderate his gambling habits, seeking to transform it from a compulsive behavior to a manageable pastime.

Barkley’s approach to gambling is layered and introspective. He doesn’t equate his gambling with substance addictions but acknowledges its detrimental impact on his life. His decision to continue gambling, albeit more cautiously, speaks to the complex nature of addiction and the personal journey toward finding a balance.