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Donald Trump criticized NBA star LeBron James for stretching and moving during the U.S. national anthem before a Philadelphia 76ers game, demanding that the player apologize to the U.S. military. James replied with a brief, ironic comment that avoided addressing the accusation. The incident began on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, when a video of the 76ers’ pre‑game ceremony at Madison Square Garden went viral. While most players stood quietly as “The Star‑Spangled Banner” played, James extended his arms, rotated his shoulders, and performed what some observers described as a golf‑swing‑like motion and a motion resembling a basketball shot. The video was shared on social media and reached former President Donald Trump, who posted it on Truth Social on Thursday, 22 October. In the post, Trump wrote: “While he listens to our national anthem, LeBron James is disrespecting our country!” He added, “I said from the start that he is not good, a total SHAME.” Trump also demanded that James issue a public apology to “all those great warriors and heroes who died for the flag and everything the country stands for.” James’ first game with the 76ers, on 20 October, ended in a 106‑100 win over the New York Knicks. He finished with 14 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. The next night, after a 114‑106 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, reporters asked him about Trump’s comments. James smiled and said, “It must have been a day with few news in the office, you know.” He did not elaborate on the anthem incident or the president’s request. During the Cavaliers game, James remained largely still while the anthem was played, keeping his head bowed. He later scored 17 points, 10 rebounds and five assists in a comeback that erased a 29‑point deficit. Philadelphia coach Nick Nurse was also questioned about the controversy. He said the situation was an external distraction and that the team’s focus should remain on training, video sessions and games. Nurse emphasized the players’ concentration since the start of the season. The Trump‑James feud dates back to Trump’s first term. In 2017, Trump withdrew a White House invitation to the Golden State Warriors, prompting James to defend teammate Stephen Curry. Trump has repeatedly criticized James, most recently in July 2026 when he compared the player to Michael Jordan and expressed a preference for the latter. The anthem incident has reignited the public dispute, but James has chosen to respond with a brief, ironic remark rather than a formal apology. The 76ers have avoided further political engagement on the matter. Article source: El Imparcial | Image credit: El Imparcial
Donald Trump criticized NBA star LeBron James for stretching and moving during the U.S. national anthem before a Philadelphia 76ers game, demanding that the player apologize to the U.S. military. James replied with a brief, ironic comment that avoided addressing the accusation. The incident began on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, when a video of the 76ers’ pre‑game ceremony at Madison Square Garden went viral. While most players stood quietly as “The Star‑Spangled Banner” played, James extended his arms, rotated his shoulders, and performed what some observers described as a golf‑swing‑like motion and a motion resembling a basketball shot. The video was shared on social media and reached former President Donald Trump, who posted it on Truth Social on Thursday, 22 October. In the post, Trump wrote: “While he listens to our national anthem, LeBron James is disrespecting our country!” He added, “I said from the start that he is not good, a total SHAME.” Trump also demanded that James issue a public apology to “all those great warriors and heroes who died for the flag and everything the country stands for.” James’ first game with the 76ers, on 20 October, ended in a 106‑100 win over the New York Knicks. He finished with 14 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. The next night, after a 114‑106 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers, reporters asked him about Trump’s comments. James smiled and said, “It must have been a day with few news in the office, you know.” He did not elaborate on the anthem incident or the president’s request. During the Cavaliers game, James remained largely still while the anthem was played, keeping his head bowed. He later scored 17 points, 10 rebounds and five assists in a comeback that erased a 29‑point deficit. Philadelphia coach Nick Nurse was also questioned about the controversy. He said the situation was an external distraction and that the team’s focus should remain on training, video sessions and games. Nurse emphasized the players’ concentration since the start of the season. The Trump‑James feud dates back to Trump’s first term. In 2017, Trump withdrew a White House invitation to the Golden State Warriors, prompting James to defend teammate Stephen Curry. Trump has repeatedly criticized James, most recently in July 2026 when he compared the player to Michael Jordan and expressed a preference for the latter. The anthem incident has reignited the public dispute, but James has chosen to respond with a brief, ironic remark rather than a formal apology. The 76ers have avoided further political engagement on the matter.
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