LeBron James fires back at Trump over national anthem controversy
U.S. president demanded an apology from Philadelphia 76ers star over his U.S. national anthem antics at NBA game
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After being accused of disrespecting the U.S. national anthem, LeBron James couldn’t resist taking a slight shot at President Donald Trump.
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James went viral earlier this week when he was spotted appearing to practice his golf swing and shoot imaginary free throws while The Star-Spangled Banner was performed ahead of his team’s season opener against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
The Philadelphia 76ers star’s actions sparked outrage from Trump, who called James a “disgrace” and demanded an apology from the greatest NBA player of his generation.
“While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country! I said right from the beginning that he’s no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE,” the president wrote in a post on Truth Social. “LeBron James should apologize to all of those Great American Warriors and Heroes who died for the American Flag, and all that our Country stands for!”
Trump doubled down on his criticism of James, a longtime target of his, during a rally in Iowa on Thursday night.
“During the national anthem, he’s practising his golf swing … what the hell is that?” Trump said as the crowd began to boo. “It’s a big scandal … what it’s all about? I don’t understand it.”
How did LeBron James respond?
The comments and criticism apparently haven’t bothered the NBA icon.
James, who is playing his first season with the Sixers, was asked about Trump’s statements after his team’s thrilling comeback win Thursday night.
“It must be a slow news day at the office, you know,” James said with a smile.
The 41-year-old had another reason to smile in the locker room, too.
In his first home game as a 76er, James helped his new team overcome one of his former franchises, the Cleveland Cavaliers, in stunning fashion.
Philly rallied from a 29-point deficit to win 114-106.
James had 17 points, 10 rebounds and five assists as Philadelphia improved to 2-0 on the season.
Prior to Thursday’s game, James was notably more subdued as TheStar-Spangled Banner was performed at Xfinity Mobile Arena.
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