Trump Condemns LeBron James Over Anthem Conduct
Former President demands apology from James following Philadelphia 76ers debut, citing disrespect for national symbols.
Carla Rooney
Donald Trump criticised LeBron James on Truth Social.
Trump claimed James acted disrespectfully, asserting the player stretched and practiced basketball shots while the anthem played. He stated, "While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country."
While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country.
The former President demanded, "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!" He further claimed James is "no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE."
Trump suggested James may be a racist and may not like him. The former President previously withdrew a White House invitation to Steph Curry.
The US anthem plays before most professional sports games. Participants expect to stand respectfully during its performance.
Trump condemned NFL players for 'Take a Knee' protests in 2017. His current criticism of James draws parallels to that earlier stance.
Separately, AC Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic reportedly criticised athletes for getting involved in political causes in a 2021 interview. Spike Lee reportedly attempted to de-escalate a situation between James and a fan.