There may not have been as much at stake as Charles Barkley alluded to, but Canada’s thrilling victory over the United States in the 4 Nations Face-Off final was still worthy of praise.
A devout hockey fan since being introduced to the sport shortly after he drafted by the Philadelphia 76ers in 1984, Barkley often touts preferring the NHL playoffs over the NBA. And Thursday night, Barkley showed up to Inside the NBA wearing a USA jersey ahead of the 4 Nations Face-Off final between the United States and Canada.
The game took place while both countries are in a trade dispute surrounding President Donald Trump threatening to impose tariffs on Canada. Trump has also taunted Canada about the country becoming the United States’ 51st state. Unfortunately for Trump, Barkley, and all USA fans, they would go on to see Connor McDavid score an overtime goal, leading Canada to a 3-2 victory over the United States.
Following the game, Barkley congratulated Canada, while noting some of Trump’s recent comments.
“They were playing harder because of the tariffs and they didn’t want to be the 51st state. That’s motivation!” – Charles Barkley on Canada’s win over the United States pic.twitter.com/OLEVWXjWpf
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) February 21, 2025
“I’m not gonna be a bad loser. Congratulations to Canada. I’m sorry we got the tariffs on you,” Barkley said to garner a chuckle out of Kenny Smith and Shaquille O’Neal. “They were playing harder because of the tariffs and they didn’t want to be the 51st state. That’s motivation!”
The 4 Nations Face-Off was a massive success for the NHL, drawing interest from casual sports fans who otherwise wouldn’t be watching a hockey game in February. But playing an international tournament, particularly amidst political tensions that accentuated the rivalry between Canada and the United States, undoubtedly added intrigue to the event.
