US President Donald Trump criticised NBA superstar LeBron James on Thursday, saying James had disrespected the national anthem during a recent game. Trump made the claim in a Truth Social post that included a video of James moving his body while the anthem was sung.
“While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country,” Trump said. He also called on James to apologise to the American service members who died for the flag and the country.
The clip showed James standing with the Philadelphia 76ers, swinging his arms in a warm-up-style stretch and making basketball shooting motions. A representative for the 76ers did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Trump’s history of criticising anthem conduct
Trump has repeatedly criticised athletes over their behaviour during pre-game anthem renditions. The pattern began with NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling protest in support of racial justice.
In 2018, Trump cancelled a planned White House visit by the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles after the team disagreed with his call for players to stand during the anthem.
James’s activism and record on the court
James became a leading voice in the Black Lives Matter movement in 2020. He has frequently supported progressive causes while rising to the top of the NBA’s all-time scoring list.
