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President Donald Trump has criticized NBA superstar LeBron James after the basketball player appeared to show off his golf swing and practice his free-throw motion during the national anthem before the Philadelphia 76ers’ season opener at Madison Square Garden.
Cameras showed James swaying back and forth and appearing to loosen up before Philadelphia’s game against the New York Knicks. Trump interpreted the movement as disrespectful toward the country and criticized the four-time NBA champion in a post on Truth Social.
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“While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country,” Trump wrote. He added that James was “no good” and called him “a TOTAL DISGRACE.” Trump also demanded that James apologize to American soldiers who died serving under the American flag. “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 wrote.
The comments continue a long-running public feud between Trump and James. The president has repeatedly criticized the Lakers legend over his views on racial justice, social activism, and other political issues. Earlier this summer, Trump accused James of possibly being racist after the player spoke out about social justice matters.
Trump has also frequently targeted athletes who protest during the national anthem or use sporting events to draw attention to racial inequality. His most prominent clash came in 2016, when he repeatedly criticized former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick for kneeling during the anthem to protest racial injustice and police brutality.
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The president also condemned athletes who spoke about racial bias following the 2020 killing of George Floyd. Those disputes helped turn the national anthem and athletes’ political expression into major points of conflict in American sports.
James has not publicly responded to Trump’s latest criticism. The NBA star is beginning a new chapter with the 76ers after joining the team this summer on a two-year contract worth $8 million.
Despite the controversy before the game, James contributed to Philadelphia’s season-opening victory over New York. He scored 14 points in the win, making his debut as the Sixers continue their campaign with one of the most accomplished players in NBA history on their roster.