LeBron James has responded to US President Donald Trump after he criticized the NBA star over his actions during the national anthem before the Philadelphia 76ers’ season opener against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday.
Trump took issue with James after a video circulated online showing the 41-year-old continuing his warm-up movements while the American national anthem played. While most of his teammates remained still, James appeared to practise movements resembling a golf swing and a basketball shot.
The president subsequently took to Truth Social to accuse James of disrespecting the country and demanded an apology from the four-time NBA champion.
In his post, Trump wrote:
“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. 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! President DONALD J. TRUMP”
However, James dismissed the criticism with a sarcastic response after the 76ers defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 114-106 on Thursday, completing an outstanding comeback from a 29-point deficit.
When asked about Trump’s comments after the game, James responded:
“Must have been a slow news day at the office, you know? Slow news day in the office.”
James and Trump have had several public disagreements over the years, with the latest clash adding to their history of exchanges.
James has frequently spoken out on social issues, particularly racial equality and the Black Lives Matter movement. During an earlier exchange with Trump, James defended the country while criticising the idea of allowing one individual to define its identity.
James said:
“This is a beautiful country and we are never going to let a single person dictate how beautiful and powerful we are.”
The NBA star has also spoken about his desire to use his influence beyond basketball, highlighting his commitment to educating, inspiring and empowering people.
Speaking about what he hopes to achieve beyond basketball, James said:
“I still know what I’m doing on the court and, obviously, I give everything for basketball, but right now I can have a greater impact off the court than on it. I want to keep inspiring people with the way I play, but there are many more things I can do off the court to help educate people, inspire them, bring them together, and empower them.”
