Saturday, October 24, 2026 - NBA superstar LeBron James has fired back at President Donald Trump after the president accused him of disrespecting the American flag during a national anthem ceremony. The controversy erupted after footage from the Philadelphia 76ers’ season opener against the New York Knicks on October 20, 2026, appeared to show James moving his arms during the performance of The Star-Spangled Banner.
Trump responded on social media on October 22, calling the basketball star a “TOTAL DISGRACE” and demanding an apology to American military personnel who died defending the country. James, however, appeared unimpressed by the criticism, delivering a sarcastic response that quickly attracted widespread attention.
Speaking to reporters after Philadelphia’s 114–106 comeback victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on October 22, James dismissed the controversy with a pointed remark: “It must be a slow news day at the office, you know. Slow news day in the office.” His response came after Trump criticised his movements during the anthem, which included arm stretches and a motion resembling a basketball shot.
Some observers interpreted the movements as a golf swing, although the Philadelphia Inquirer noted that the motion appeared consistent with stretching rather than an actual golf swing. James did not apologise, choosing instead to focus on his new team’s performance and their dramatic comeback win.
The exchange has reignited public attention on the long-running tension between James and Trump, who have clashed publicly on several occasions over the years. James has previously spoken out on social issues, while Trump has repeatedly criticised athletes whose actions he considers disrespectful to national symbols.
The latest dispute has also sparked debate online about athlete conduct, personal freedom and the expectations placed on public figures during national ceremonies. Despite the controversy, James helped Philadelphia secure an impressive victory, finishing with 17 points, 10 rebounds and five assists. His brief response has now become the central talking point, demonstrating how quickly a sporting moment can develop into a wider national debate.
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