Photo credit: LeBron James/Instagram
Donald Trump is calling out LeBron James after a viral video showed the NBA star making warm-up movements during the national anthem before the Philadelphia 76ers faced the New York Knicks.
The president criticized James on Truth Social Thursday, October 22, accusing him of disrespecting the United States. Trump also demanded an apology from the four-time NBA champion over the moment, which sparked debate across social media.
According to the Associated Press and Reuters, the video was recorded before Philadelphia’s season opener against New York at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday, October 20. It shows James making a golf-swing-like movement and practicing his basketball shooting form while the anthem played.
Trump demands an apology from LeBron James
Trump accused James of disrespecting the country and called him a “TOTAL DISGRACE” in his social media post.
The president also demanded that the basketball star apologize to American service members and others who died defending the country.
The criticism quickly drew attention because of the long-running public tension between Trump and James. The two have clashed over the years, particularly on political and social issues.
However, the video itself does not establish James’ intentions. While some viewers interpreted his movements as disrespectful, others viewed them as part of his usual pregame warm-up routine.
Viral anthem video sparks debate
The footage shows James standing alongside his Philadelphia teammates as the national anthem plays. While other players largely remain still, James appears to stretch and go through familiar shooting motions.
The clip spread online and prompted different reactions from viewers. Some criticized the NBA star for moving during the performance, while others questioned whether the moment justified the response it received.
The incident has also renewed a broader debate about athletes’ behavior during the national anthem. Similar controversies have followed sports figures who have used anthem ceremonies to make political or social statements.
In this case, however, the footage alone does not show that James intended his movements as a political protest.
LeBron James has not responded to Trump’s criticism
As of Thursday afternoon, James had not publicly responded to Trump’s latest comments, according to AP and Reuters reporting.
The controversy comes as James begins his first season with the 76ers after a long career that included championship runs and years as one of the NBA’s most recognizable players.
James has also become known for speaking publicly about social justice and other issues beyond basketball. His history of political commentary has contributed to his public disagreements with Trump.
For now, the president’s demand for an apology has added another chapter to their ongoing public tension. Whether James will address the criticism remains unclear.
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