The NBA Hall of Famer and Auburn University icon Charles Barkley has signed a $13.5 million deal with Netflix. The agreement will produce a seven-episode documentary series chronicling his transformative journey with the Auburn Tigers. But this is more than just a biography—it’s a powerful tribute to one of basketball’s most outspoken and unforgettable figures.
The upcoming series, which is set to premiere later this year, will explore Barkley’s rise from a relatively unknown high school recruit to a national sensation at Auburn University in the early 1980s. The documentary promises never-before-seen footage, emotional interviews, and behind-the-scenes stories from Barkley’s college years. Fans can expect appearances from his former coaches, teammates, and even rivals, all providing unique insights into the making of “The Round Mound of Rebound.”
What sets this series apart is its deeply personal lens. Barkley, known for his larger-than-life personality and unfiltered commentary, is said to be heavily involved in the production process. He’ll narrate portions of the series, guiding viewers through the highs and lows of his Auburn journey—from the challenges of adjusting to college life, to the national attention he drew for his dominant play, and the lasting legacy he left behind in Auburn, Alabama.
Each of the seven episodes will focus on a distinct chapter in his life at Auburn. One episode will delve into the cultural and social climate of the 1980s South and how Barkley navigated it as a young Black athlete. Another will highlight his rivalry with SEC opponents and his evolution under legendary Auburn coach Sonny Smith. The final episode is expected to touch on how Barkley has carried Auburn pride into his post-basketball life as a broadcaster and philanthropist.
Netflix has described the series as “a celebration of grit, greatness, and identity,” promising a visually rich and emotionally resonant viewing experience. The project is part of Netflix’s broader push into premium sports content, joining a growing roster of documentaries centered on sports icons. Barkley’s story, though, is expected to resonate far beyond the basketball world—touching on themes of resilience, Southern heritage, racial identity, and personal reinvention.
For Auburn fans, the series will be more than nostalgic; it’s a reminder of a golden era and a player who changed the game for their program. Barkley didn’t just play for Auburn—he put it on the map. The show will include tributes from students, fans, and alumni whose lives and Auburn experiences were shaped by Barkley’s electrifying presence on and off the court. His story is deeply entwined with the university’s identity, making this series a cultural milestone for the Auburn community.
As excitement builds, Barkley himself released a statement saying, “Auburn made me who I am. This is my love letter to the university and to everyone who believed in me before the world knew my name.” With Netflix backing and Barkley’s signature charisma, this series is shaping up to be one of the most compelling sports documentaries in recent memory—a slam dunk tribute to a true Auburn legend.
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