President Trump Says LeBron James Disrespected National Anthem
-
Post By
Emmie
- October 23, 2026
US President Donald Trump launched a fresh attack on NBA superstar LeBron James, accusing the Philadelphia 76ers forward of disrespecting the country after video footage surfaced showing him practicing a golf swing and jump shot during the national anthem.
The footage was recorded prior to Philadelphia's season-opening game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday, where James stood lined up beside teammates as Boyz II Men performed The Star-Spangled Banner. While his teammates largely stood motionless with heads bowed, James made brief warming-up gestures.
Reacting on social media, Trump called out the 41-year-old athlete:
"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!"
Trump reiterated his complaints during a campaign rally in Sioux City, Iowa on Thursday evening, telling attendees:
"And what about LeBron James? Did you see that deal? No, he's doing, during the national anthem he's practicing his golf swing. I said what the hell is that. It's a big scandal kind of a story. I don't understand it."
Following Philadelphia's dramatic 114-106 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday night, in which the 76ers rallied back from a 29-point deficit, James briefly addressed the president's remarks: "It's a slow news day at the office, you know. Slow news day in the office."
Before the home opener, 76ers head coach Nick Nurse downplayed the social media backlash, characterizing it as routine background noise for a high-profile team:
"I think that goes right in with other outside noise we've already had."
"I keep saying the same thing. All I really care about is getting to the practice floor, getting them in the film room, getting them to the game floor. The focus that they've had and the intent and all the stuff like that has been outstanding."
The exchange marks the latest chapter in a multi-year public feud between Trump and James. The basketball star has frequently utilized his platform to speak on social issues and campaign for Democratic candidates, famously responding to past media criticism by declaring:
"We will definitely not shut up and dribble. I will definitely not do that. I mean too much to society. I mean too much to the youth. I mean too much to so many kids that feel like they don't have a way out, and they need someone to help lead them out of the situation they're in."
On the court, James contributed 17 points and 10 rebounds to support team leaders Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid in securing Philadelphia's historical comeback win, extending their undefeated start to the season.
