Charles Barkley calls Chicago Bulls fans a “shame” for bringing Jerry Krause’s widow to tears.
The NBA legend made impassioned remarks to Inside The NBA in response to the shocking scene at the Bulls’ inaugural Ring of Honor ceremony last Friday.
Krause was one of 13 people selected to the Circle of Honor and is considered the man who built the Bulls’ six championship teams in the 1990s.
He died in 2017 and his wife Thelma attended the funeral in his stead.
However, when his name was given the honor, the crowd rained boos and Thelma burst into tears.
“What happened that night in Chicago was a disgrace. It was just a disgrace,” Barkley said live on TNT.
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“To have (Jerry Krause’s) wife cry like this… is wrong on so many levels…
“What the fans who were involved did to Mrs. Claus was not cool and everyone should apologize to this woman.
“Whether you liked Jerry Krause or not, that man is dead, rest in peace.
“His wife was right there and you made that lady cry, it’s complete bullshit.
“My heart aches seeing this scene.”
Barkley also criticized Bulls legends Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen and Dennis Rodman for not attending the event.
Jordan and Pippen currently have a tense relationship due to Jordan’s son Marcus’ relationship with Pippen’s ex-wife Larsa.
Rodman, meanwhile, claimed he was unable to attend due to the extreme weather.
“Michael, Scotty and Dennis didn’t show up – that was wrong,” Buckley added.
“It’s a complete disgrace to the legacy of the Chicago Bulls. They’ve always been a great, great organization.
“But you don’t have the greatest players in your team – he won six titles, Dennis and Scottie.
“I don’t know why 100 guys are commemorated in the ring… it’s just stupid.”
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, who plays against the Bulls on Friday, was also shocked by fans’ reaction to Mrs. Krause.
“It’s absolutely disgraceful,” Kerr said.
“Tonight and last night were all about the joy and love that this team shares with this city, and I’m very disappointed for the fans.
“I want to be specific because I’m sure there are a lot of fans who didn’t boo. Those who did should be ashamed.”