Charles Barkley calls out trick-or-treaters for asking him to sign cards

Charles Barkley ripped trick-or-treaters for asking him to sign basketball cards during a Halloween rant on 'Inside the NBA.'

The NBA Hall of Famer addressed the bold youngsters on the show Wednesday night.

"Hey, let me tell you something," Barkley began.

"You damn brats need to stop bringing basketball cards and stuff to my damn house."

"I'm giving you damn candy; I'm not there to sign autographs all night."

"I'm gonna let y'all get away with that this one damn time..."

Barkley spoke during the first 'Inside the NBA' episode since Halloween.

The show returned to ESPN Wednesday night with the full crew: Barkley, Ernie Johnson, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O'Neal.

It was the first time they were on-air together since the holiday.

So it was also the first time Barkley could issue this public service announcement.

Barkley insisted he loves being home to give kids candy.

"I love being home and giving the kids candy," Barkley continued.

"But now they're bringing cards."

"You can't be mean to kids."

"I wanted to punch them in the face, but I couldn't do it."

"Come on, man."

"Quit bringing damn cards to my house."

"I'm giving you damn free candy — that's what Halloween is for."

The rant has sparked conversation about the audacity of the trick-or-treaters.

Observers note that this appears to be premeditated.

It is unlikely that many kids carry Charles Barkley cards in their wallets at all times.

They would have to have them on hand on the off chance they run into him while dressed in costume.

Costumes reportedly included pirates, football players, and inflatable Minions.

Some have speculated that parents may be behind the scheme.

There is a good chance the common trick-or-treater in the Philadelphia or Scottsdale area did not happen to have a Charles Barkley card in their costume pocket without a parent's help.

If parents are using kids to disguise their own desire for an autograph, Barkley might have a legitimate gripe.

Barkley's frustration is understandable from his perspective.

He is trying to participate in a simple Halloween tradition.

Instead, he finds himself being asked to sign autographs all night.

The incident highlights the unique challenges faced by celebrities during public holidays.

Barkley lives in the Philadelphia or Scottsdale area, according to reports.

He has been a prominent figure in the NBA for decades.

Barkley played for the Philadelphia 76ers, Phoenix Suns, and Houston Rockets.

He was named one of the 50 Greatest Players in NBA history.

Since retiring, he has become a beloved television analyst on 'Inside the NBA.'

The show is known for its candid and humorous commentary.

Barkley's rant fits perfectly with his reputation for speaking his mind.

He is not one to hold back his opinions, whether about basketball or trick-or-treaters.

His Halloween complaint has resonated with many viewers.

Some find it funny, others find it relatable.

Many have shared similar stories of being asked for more than just candy.

Halloween is a night when kids typically go door-to-door asking for treats.