Trump Slams LeBron James as 'Total Disgrace' Over National Anthem Actions

Former President Donald Trump has publicly criticized NBA star LeBron James, calling him a "total disgrace" for his actions during the national anthem. The comments come after video circulated showing James practicing a golf swing and free throw technique while "The Star-Spangled Banner" played before a Philadelphia 76ers game against the New York Knicks.

Trump, who has a history of public disagreements with James, took to his Truth Social platform to voice his disapproval. "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," Trump wrote. He added that 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!"

The public feud between the two figures dates back to at least 2017, when James called Trump a "bum." Earlier in the year, Trump questioned James's basketball legacy, stating, "Michael Jordan's a guy that's a friend of mine... I think LeBron is - maybe he's a racist, but maybe he doesn't like Trump, I don't know - but I only like people that like me, so I would say Michael Jordan all the way."

James, a vocal critic of Trump's policies and leadership, has frequently used his platform to engage in political commentary and promote voting rights initiatives. His opposition to Trump publicly surfaced in 2016 when he endorsed Hillary Clinton for president.

In 2017, James defended Golden State Warriors player Steph Curry after Trump rescinded a White House invitation. James tweeted at the time, "U bum, Steph Curry already said he ain't going! So, therefore ain't no invite. Going to White House was a great honor until you showed up!"

The public exchanges continued in 2018 when Trump announced he would preemptively ban the Cleveland Cavaliers and Golden State Warriors from visiting the White House. James responded by stating, "Winning a championship is way bigger than getting invited to the White House, especially with him in it."

Later that year, James expressed his dismay with Trump's presidency in an ESPN interview, saying it "makes me sick" how Trump handled the "moral authority of the Oval Office." James added that the President "doesn't understand the power that he has for being the leader of this beautiful country" and how many children look up to the president for guidance.

During his debut game with the 76ers against the Knicks, James was also seen engaging with fans near the court, at one point shouting at a fan. The situation was later diffused when James appeared to dap the fan up.

James joined the 76ers over the summer after departing the Los Angeles Lakers. In his Philadelphia debut, he recorded 14 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists in the team's 106-100 victory over the Knicks.