Trump Slams LeBron James Over Anthem Moment and Demands Apology

The season barely tipped off, and the biggest talking point is already happening away from the hardwood. President Donald Trump has taken aim at LeBron James over his behavior during the national anthem, demanding an apology and reigniting one of sport’s most talked-about political feuds.

What Happened During the Anthem?

Ahead of the Philadelphia 76ers’ season-opening game against the New York Knicks on Wednesday, the Star-Spangled Banner was performed at Madison Square Garden. Video shows James appearing to practice a golf swing and basketball shots while the song played.

His teammates, lined up beside him on the court, mostly stood with minimal movement. The contrast quickly caught attention online.

Trump’s Reaction

Trump responded on social media, writing: “While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country! LeBron James should apologize to all of those Great American Warriors and Heroes who died for the American Flag.”

He added that he had said “right from the beginning that he’s no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE.” James has not responded publicly. The BBC has contacted him through the 76ers and asked the team for comment.

Anthem Etiquette and a Familiar Flash-Point

The US anthem is played or performed before most professional sports games. Players and spectators are expected to stand, if they can, and avoid moving around. Some sing along.

The tradition has been a political lightning rod before. In 2016, former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick sat, then knelt, during the anthem to protest police brutality and racism in the United States.

The Kaepernick Precedent

Trump criticized Kaepernick and later took credit when the athlete could not find a team. Years later, he softened his stance, saying Kaepernick should “get another shot” in the NFL.

The comparison matters because anthem conduct has repeatedly become a proxy for wider political debate in American sport.

A Long-Running Trump and James Feud

The two have traded barbs for years. James has publicly endorsed or campaigned for Trump’s political opponents since the 2016 presidential election.

• 2018: Trump suggested James was not intelligent after the player said he “would never sit across” from him.
• 2018: James said Trump gave racists “an opportunity to be out and outspoken without fear.”
• 2021: James suggested Trump’s rhetoric led to the storming of the US Capitol. He had endorsed Joe Biden, who won the 2020 election.
• July: Asked to pick between James and Michael Jordan as the greatest of all time, Trump chose Jordan, saying: “I only like people that like me.”

Feud Timeline at a Glance

The Man at the Center: LeBron James by the Numbers

James, 41, remains one of the most scrutinized athletes on the planet. He is the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and has won a championship with every team he has played for.

In July, he signed a two-year contract with Philadelphia, widely expected to be the last of his professional career.

What Happens Next?

All eyes are now on whether James will respond, and how the 76ers handle the fallout. With a farewell season possibly unfolding, every pregame moment is likely to be watched closely.

For now, the story is a reminder of how quickly sport, politics, and symbolism collide. One short clip, one social media post, and a decade-long rivalry has a fresh chapter.