U.S. President Donald Trump has reacted to LeBron James, who faced criticism for his actions during the American national anthem before the game between the New York Knicks and the Philadelphia 76ers.
In a post on his social media account, Trump argued that James showed disrespect to the country while the national anthem was being played and stated that the star basketball player should apologize to the American people.
LeBron James is disrespecting our country while listening to our National Anthem. I said from the very beginning that he is not a good person and is a total disgrace. LeBron James should apologize to all the American warriors and heroes who sacrificed their lives for the American flag and everything our country stands for.
The controversy occurred before the Knicks-76ers game played at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday. According to information in the source report, James mimicked a golf swing and appeared to be practicing jump shots while the national anthem was playing.
The game in question was also notable as the first match James played in a Philadelphia 76ers jersey. However, rather than the sporting aspect of the game, the footage from during the national anthem stood out on social media.
No statement from the James camp regarding the matter was provided in the source text. It remains to be seen whether the controversy will become part of a broader agenda regarding national anthem ceremonies in the NBA and the public behavior of athletes.
News Source: 12punto
