Sat Mar 21 18:40:00 UTC 2026: Headline: Barkley’s Guarantee: Auburn to Face High Point in 2026-27 Basketball Season
The Story:
During TNT’s halftime coverage of the March 2026 NCAA Tournament game between Alabama and Hofstra, Charles Barkley, an Auburn legend, responded to a social media post from High Point University suggesting he could gain eligibility to play for them. Barkley jokingly “guar-an-teed” that Auburn would schedule a game against High Point during the 2026-27 season. Barkley’s comments were inspired by High Point head coach Flynn Clayman’s postgame remarks following his team’s upset victory over Wisconsin, where Clayman criticized major programs for avoiding matchups with mid-major teams.
Key Points:
* Charles Barkley “guar-an-teed” Auburn will play High Point in the 2026-27 season.
* Barkley’s guarantee was made during TNT’s halftime coverage of an NCAA Tournament game.
* The guarantee was prompted by a High Point social media post and High Point coach Flynn Clayman’s comments about major programs avoiding mid-majors.
* Barkley intends to contact Auburn’s coach, Steven Pearl, and Athletic Director, John Cohen, to make the game happen.
* Barkley suggested a neutral site or a game at Auburn, citing hotel availability.
Key Takeaways:
* Charles Barkley’s influence remains strong at Auburn, even as an alumnus and media personality.
* The issue of major programs avoiding mid-major matchups is a relevant topic in college basketball.
* Barkley’s comments highlight the potential for media figures to influence college sports scheduling.
* This event underscores the power of a high-profile upset in the NCAA Tournament to spark broader conversations within the sport.
First Piper 