The History Of The Nike Air CB4 II

CB4 II

The Nike Air CB4 II was the final shoe in Charles Barkley’s line with Nike that he actually played basketball in. The CB4 II was released in 1997. The shoe had a full midsole of Air Bubbles. The shoes were low cut and a upper with full grain leather and nubuck. It has herringbone traction. The CB4 II was one of the cleanest and sleekest shoes in the Barkley signature line.

Barkley

Chuck played three years of college basketball for Auburn. His time at Auburn impressed the basketball world and he entered the 1984 NBA Draft. The Philadelphia 76ers took the Power Forward with the fifth overall pick. Barkley joined a 76ers squad that was filled with NBA legends. Julius Erving, Moses Malone, and Maurice Cheeks were teammates of Barkley’s during his rookie season. Under their leadership and tutelage, Barkley had a strong debut season.

Philly

The Philadelphia 76ers didn’t accomplish much during the 8 years Barkley was a member of the team. He grew frustrated with the lack of progress the organization was making. Barkley’s time in Philly was filled with a lot of individual highlights. However, there was a lot of controversy too. Charles had a knack for getting in trouble. He was so charming and fun loving that a lot of his controversies were overlooked by the media and fans.

Suns

In 1992, the Sixers and Charles Barkley would part ways. Barkley was tired of losing, and the Sixers were tired of his off the court antics. Chuck would be moved to the Phoenix Suns, and he would find the greatest success of his career.

MVP

During the 1993 NBA Season, Barkley’s first with the Suns, he brought home his first MVP trophy. Barkley would lead the Suns to the NBA Finals – against Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls. The Suns would be beaten by the Bull in the Finals, but the series was competitive, and Barkley held his own against MJ.

- Adam C. Better