LeBron James Responds to Trump's 'Total Disgrace' Label
NBA star mocks former president's criticism after being called out for practicing golf during national anthem.
LeBron James has responded with apparent amusement to criticism from former President Donald Trump, who labeled the NBA icon a “total disgrace” for his actions during the national anthem. Trump's remarks came after footage of James practicing his golf swing and free throw technique during the anthem before a Philadelphia 76ers game against the New York Knicks went viral.
"It must be a slow news day at the office, you know," James said when asked about Trump's comments following the 76ers' comeback win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Trump, a frequent critic of James, posted his condemnation on Truth Social, stating that the basketball player "disrespects our Country" and should apologize to military members and heroes.
Trump reiterated his criticism at a rally in Iowa, questioning James's actions during the anthem and calling it a "big scandal." This exchange marks the latest development in a long-standing public feud between the two figures. Their initial public spat dates back to 2017 when James called Trump a "bum" after Trump withdrew a White House invitation for the Golden State Warriors. The tension escalated in subsequent years, with Trump also making controversial remarks about James's political leanings and suggesting Michael Jordan was a better player because Jordan was a friend and Jordan did not criticize him.
James has been a vocal critic of Trump, endorsing Democratic candidates and advocating for voting rights initiatives. His political opposition to Trump began as early as 2016, when he endorsed Hillary Clinton in an op-ed, citing her understanding of the challenges faced by underprivileged youth.
In recent weeks, James has also been the subject of boos from some fans during home games, notably before halftime in his first home game with the 76ers against his former team, the Cleveland Cavaliers. However, the 76ers mounted a significant comeback in that game, securing a 114-106 victory, which James described as "everything that I dreamed of and more."