Trump Accuses LeBron James of Disrespecting US National Anthem

US President Donald Trump has criticised basketball superstar LeBron James, accusing the NBA forward of disrespecting the United States after a video showed him continuing his warm-up movements while the national anthem was being performed before a game.

Trump made the accusation in a post on his Truth Social platform on Thursday, October 22, sharing footage of James moving his arms in a motion resembling a golf swing before imitating a basketball shot during the performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner”.

“While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country!” Trump wrote, describing the 41-year-old basketball star as a “total disgrace” and demanding that he apologise to American military personnel and others who died serving the country.

The footage was recorded before the Philadelphia 76ers faced the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday, October 20. James, who recently joined Philadelphia, was standing alongside his teammates, most of whom remained still during the anthem.

James later dismissed the president’s criticism, responding, “It must be a slow news day at the office.” His remarks came after Philadelphia defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 114-106 in the 76ers’ home opener.

The exchange adds to a long-running public feud between Trump and James, who has frequently spoken out on social justice and political issues. James criticised Trump during his first presidency, accusing him of using sports to divide Americans. Trump has also previously attacked athletes over their conduct during national anthem ceremonies.

The latest dispute has revived a wider debate in American sports over patriotism, freedom of expression and the expectations placed on professional athletes during national ceremonies. The controversy recalls the backlash against former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick, who began kneeling during the national anthem in 2016 to protest racial injustice and police brutality.

Philadelphia head coach Nick Nurse played down the political distraction, saying the team needed to remain focused on training and competition rather than outside criticism.

James, the NBA’s all-time leading scorer, is playing a record-extending 24th season and is widely regarded as one of the most influential athletes of his generation. His move to Philadelphia has drawn attention both for its sporting implications and for the renewed public interest in his relationship with Trump.

Neither the NBA nor the 76ers immediately issued a formal statement on the president’s criticism, according to reports. James’s brief response, however, indicated that he did not intend to let the controversy distract him from the season.