Barkley noted that the NBA's best ratings were recorded during the 1998-99 season when the league shifted its schedule to start on Christmas due to a strike, suggesting a potential model for the future.

Charles Barkley, a prominent NBA figure, has suggested that the league should consider starting its regular season on Christmas Day to minimize competition with the NFL and college football, which heavily dominate weekends in the fall.

This proposal underscores the challenges the NBA faces in scheduling its season amidst major football events, although shortening the regular season may not be a viable solution.

As the NBA begins the 2024-25 season, it is grappling with a decline in television ratings, prompting serious discussions among coaches and players about the league's future.

These discussions reflect the complexity of the issues impacting the NBA's popularity and the potential need for the league to adapt to changing circumstances.

Barkley has also expressed concerns about the current direction of the league, particularly criticizing the trend of players forming super teams rather than competing against one another.

Critics, including notable figures like LeBron James and coach JJ Redick, have pointed to poor marketing of emerging stars and a shift towards increased 3-point shooting as contributing factors to the league's challenges.