United States President Donald Trump launched a sharp attack on NBA superstar LeBron James, accusing him of disrespecting the American national anthem. The controversy was sparked by a video posted on X showing James performing warm-up stretches at Madison Square Garden in New York. According to the post, the footage was captured before the Philadelphia 76ers vs. New York Knicks game. Trump claimed that the basketball star failed to stand at attention during the anthem, calling his behavior disrespectful to the United States.
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Trump’s demand for a public apology from LeBron James
In the same post, the American president reiterated that he views such actions as a sign of disrespect and called on James to issue a public apology. Specifically, Trump referenced American soldiers and heroes who gave their lives serving their country, linking his demand to respect for the American flag and the values it represents. In the clip shared by Trump, James is seen standing alongside other players, moving his arms in warm-up exercises. He then performs a shooting motion, without holding a ball. Trump interpreted these movements as a deliberate lack of respect during the playing of the national anthem, and used them as the basis for his criticism.
Trump’s post
“While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country! I said right from the beginning that he’s no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE. LeBron James should apologize to all of those Great American Warriors and Heroes who died for the American Flag, and all that our Country stands for! President DONALD J. TRUMP”
While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country! I said right from the beginning that he’s no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE. LeBron James should apologize to all of those Great American Warriors and Heroes who died for the American Flag, and all that our Country stands for! President DONALD J. TRUMP ( TS: Oct 22 2026, 12:22 PM ET )
— Commentary Donald J. Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) October 22, 2026
