LeBron James has responded to criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, delivering a short but sarcastic answer after being accused of disrespecting the American national anthem.
The controversy began during the Philadelphia 76ers’ season opener against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday. While his teammates stood relatively still during the national anthem, James was seen making movements resembling a golf swing and practicing a basketball shot.
The footage quickly attracted attention and eventually prompted a reaction from Trump, who strongly criticized the four-time NBA champion on his Truth Social platform.
Trump described James as a “TOTAL DISGRACE” and demanded that the 41-year-old apologize to American military personnel, accusing him of disrespecting the country and those who had sacrificed their lives defending it.
Trump rips LeBron James: “He’s practicing his golf swing during the national anthem.” https://t.co/5T6OLp1zkq
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) October 23, 2026
However, James appeared largely unimpressed when reporters asked him about the president’s comments following Philadelphia’s home opener against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday.
“It must be a slow news day at the office,” James responded, before repeating the remark.
LeBron responds to Trump calling him out:
“Must be a slow day in the office.” https://t.co/w4jxYIJMXK
— OpenCourt-Basketball (@OpenCourtFB) October 23, 2026
The exchange represents another chapter in the long-running public feud between the two prominent figures. James has repeatedly criticized Trump throughout his political career, particularly regarding issues of racial equality, leadership and social justice.
The NBA superstar has also consistently defended athletes’ right to express their political opinions, famously rejecting suggestions that basketball players should stay away from political discussions.
Despite the controversy surrounding him, James had plenty to celebrate on the court. He contributed 17 points and 10 rebounds as Philadelphia overcame a remarkable 29-point deficit to defeat Cleveland 114-106, completing the biggest comeback victory of his 24-year NBA career.
