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Donald Trump Slams 'Disgrace' LeBron James for 'Disrespecting His Country' at NBA Game While Criticizing Athlete's Behavior During National Anthem
Donald Trump slammed LeBron James.MEGA, @TICKPICK/X
Donald Trump slammed LeBron James.MEGA, @TICKPICK/X

The president slammed the NBA star for his behavior during the national anthem ahead of his season opener against the New York Knicks on October 20.

'A Total Disgrace'

Donald Trump told LeBron James to apologize for 'disrespecting' the country.MEGA
Donald Trump told LeBron James to apologize for 'disrespecting' the country.MEGA

In other moments, he appeared to shoot an invisible basketball rather than bow his head with the rest of the players who somberly stood in a line beside him.

The president was less than thrilled with James' behavior and took to social media on October 22 to scold him.

"While listening to our national anthem, LeBron James disrespects our country," he wrote on Truth Social. "I said right from the beginning that he's no good and a TOTAL DISGRACE."

'LeBron James Should Apologize'

LeBron James was criticized for stretching his arms during the national anthem.@TICKPICK/X
LeBron James was criticized for stretching his arms during the national anthem.@TICKPICK/X

Trump went as far as to demand James say sorry to all of the nation's troops and leaders that he "disrespected" while refusing to stand still during the song.

"LeBron James should apologize to all of those great American warriors and heroes who died for the American flag," the president declared.

"And all that our country stands for," he added.

Fans Defend LeBron James After Donald Trump's Criticism

Fans came to LeBron James' defense.MEGA
Fans came to LeBron James' defense.MEGA

Many fans came to James' defense online, alleging that the basketball star had not been "practicing his golf swing," as some claimed, but was instead simply getting his head in the game.

"I’m not the biggest LeBron fan, but this isn’t a golf swing. Narrative Nancy," one person wrote.

"It looks like stretching for the game, to me," another wrote. "What’s the problem?"

"Looks like he’s warming up to me. Get a life," a third pointed out, as a fourth added, "You recording and not paying attention to the anthem is just as bad."

'I Only Like People That Like Me'

Donald Trump has previously criticized LeBron James.MEGA
Donald Trump has previously criticized LeBron James.MEGA

"Michael Jordan is a guy that's a friend of mine. I play golf with him," he said at the time. "He's a really good guy. And I think LeBron is, maybe he's a racist, but maybe he doesn't like Trump, I don't know."

"But I only like people that like me," Trump added. "So, I would say Michael Jordan all the way."

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