Charles Barkley

Charles Barkley is the most dominant undersized player in basketball history. At 6'5" — officially listed at 6'6" but universally acknowledged to be shorter — Barkley played power forward against opponents who were four, five, even six inches taller, and he dominated them through a combination of lower-body power, relentless rebounding, and sheer competitive fury. He won an MVP award, led the Suns to the 1993 Finals, and was one of the 10 best players on the planet for a full decade.

Barkley's rebounding was ferocious. Despite his height, he consistently grabbed 11-12 rebounds per game by using his enormous lower body as a battering ram and his anticipation to get to the ball before taller opponents could react. His offensive game was equally impressive — a versatile scorer who could post up, hit mid-range jumpers, and finish in transition with power that belied his stature. He was the original 'positionless' player, a prototype for the modern stretch-four before the term existed.

Sir Charles never won a championship, and that omission prevents him from ranking higher. But his impact on basketball culture extends far beyond the court. As a television analyst on TNT's Inside the NBA, Barkley has become one of the most beloved sports personalities in America — honest, funny, and willing to say what everyone else is thinking. His playing legacy is Hall of Fame caliber. His broadcasting legacy may be just as significant.