LeBron James has never been one to shy away from a spotlight, and this week he found himself in the middle of a political firestorm. Just hours before the Philadelphia 76ers' home opener, President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to slam the NBA superstar for his pregame routine during the national anthem, calling him a "TOTAL DISGRACE."
The controversy stems from a video that circulated online showing James working on his golf swing and shooting form while the anthem played before Tuesday night's season opener against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Some fans saw it as disrespectful, while others noted that James has been doing this for years. Trump, however, was not having it.
"While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country!" Trump wrote. "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!"
When reporters asked James about the president's remarks after Thursday night's game, the four-time champion delivered a response dripping with sarcasm.
"It's a slow news day at the office, you know," James said with a shrug. "Slow news day in the office."
The timing was interesting, as James had just led the 76ers to a jaw-dropping comeback victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. Philadelphia trailed by as many as 29 points in the third quarter before storming back to win, marking the largest comeback of James' legendary career. He finished with 17 points and 10 rebounds, while Tyrese Maxey led the team with 32 points.
The win improved the 76ers to 2-0 on the young season, and James' response to Trump has only added to the narrative. It's not the first time the two have clashed; James has been a vocal critic of Trump in the past, and the feeling is clearly mutual.
For fans, the saga is just another chapter in the ongoing drama between sports and politics. Some have pointed out that James' anthem ritual is nothing new, while others see it as a deliberate provocation. The MSG crowd's reaction to James was mixed, with some boos mixed in with the cheers.
Regardless of where you stand, James' ability to stay focused on the court is undeniable. His performance on Thursday night was a reminder that he's still one of the most electrifying players in the league, even at 40. Next up for the 76ers is a showdown with the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET.
As for Trump's criticism, James seems unfazed. His sarcastic retort was classic LeBron — calm, cool, and collected, with just a hint of defiance. It's a safe bet that this won't be the last time these two cross paths.
