Trump Criticizes LeBron James Over National Anthem Performance

Former President Donald Trump took to social media to criticize basketball star LeBron James, alleging that James disrespected the U.S. by not remaining still during the national anthem. Trump's remarks were made following a recent game where James, now with the Philadelphia 76ers, appeared to be practicing golf and basketball moves as "The Star-Spangled Banner" was performed at Madison Square Garden.

Trump posted, "While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country!" He further stated, "LeBron James should apologize to all of those Great American Warriors and Heroes who died for the American Flag." Trump also referred to James as a "TOTAL DISGRACE."

The tradition of playing the U.S. anthem before professional sporting events typically involves players and spectators standing and refraining from movement. This practice has previously been a focal point for protest. In 2016, former NFL player Colin Kaepernick sat and later knelt during the anthem to protest police brutality and racial inequality.

Trump has a history of public criticism of James, particularly since the basketball player began endorsing and campaigning for Trump's political opponents after the 2016 presidential election. In 2018, Trump suggested James lacked intelligence after James stated he "would never sit across" from the former president. James, in turn, has accused Trump of emboldening racists and has linked Trump's rhetoric to the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.

In a separate incident earlier this year, when asked to compare James and Michael Jordan's status as the greatest basketball player of all time, Trump stated he preferred Jordan, adding, "I only like people that like me."

As of this report, LeBron James had not publicly responded to Trump's latest comments. The BBC has reached out to James for comment through the 76ers organization.