76ers Owner Says Barkley Isn’t Going Anywhere

Forward Charles Barkley can expect to be back in Philadelphia with the 76ers next season, despite his nationally televised prediction that he will be traded, 76ers’ owner Harold Katz said Wednesday.

Barkley, who has a reputation for a quick temper and flippant remarks, created his latest furor Tuesday night when he said he does not expect to be with Philadelphia at the start of next season.

“Charles is Charles and some things that Charles says should not be taken too seriously,” Katz said.

“I think when you have a Charles Barkley you have to take what’s on the court. We’re going to have to live with what happens off the court. Somehow, someday, I think there’s going to be a maturity set in and these statements won’t be necessary.”

Katz said he spoke with Barkley Wednesday morning and told him he won’t be traded.

“Short of a Michael Jordan, Akeem Olajuwon, (Larry) Bird or Magic Johnson we’re not going to listen to anything,” Katz said. “That’s not going to happen and we’re not interested in trading Charles Barkley.”

Barkley, interviewed Tuesday night at courtside of Game 4 of the National Basketball Assn. championship series, said: “I don’t think I will be in Philadelphia next year. I think I will be traded before the season starts. They want me to be an All-American boy. I don’t fit that mold.”