On the left is Sam Cassell, a former All-Star point guard who’s now coaching with the Wizards. On the right is Gollum, a character from “The Lord of the Rings.” Charles Barkley thinks they look alike.
During a discussion on “Inside the NBA” about Amare Stoudemire punching a fire extinguisher, Kenny Smith said that some players like when a teammate gets hurt or sick because it gives them an opportunity to play. He pointed out that Sam Cassell, who shared the point guard position with him on the Rockets, used to think that way. That led Barkley into an unprompted Gollum comparison.
“Sam Cassell, the guy, he won an Oscar!” Barkley said.
Smith, clearly annoyed, pleaded with Barkley to leave Cassell alone. Barkley of course continued.
“Y’all got a picture of Gollum?” Barkley asked the TNT production crew. “Have you ever seen Sam Cassell and Gollum at the same place? You know I love Sam Cassell …”
Here’s video of the exchange:
Cassell is frequently ridiculed for his looks and it’s really unfortunate. He can’t help the way he looks and he shouldn’t be mocked because of it. Don’t worry Sam, I got your back.
Cassell was one of the most competitive point guards in the NBA and a true winner. He led the Clippers and Timberwolves to their best regular-season records and deepest playoff runs in franchise history. That’s what fans should recall when they think of Sam Cassell.
