LeBron James fires back at Donald Trump after national anthem criticism

Philadelphia 76ers player LeBron James dismissed sharp criticism from Donald Trump regarding his behavior during the national anthem with a brief one-liner before his team staged a comeback victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers, according to reports. Trump labeled the 41-year-old basketball player a “total disgrace” after video footage showed James appearing to practice golf swings and mime basketball shooting motions during the anthem at the NBA season opener.

LeBron James Answers Donald Trump With a Single Sentence

Addressing reporters ahead of the matchup against Cleveland, James offered a casual retort regarding the commentary. Referring to the presidential schedule, James remarked, “There’s not much going on in the office today,” implying that Trump had little else of importance to occupy his time.

LeBron James still in golf mode as he was practicing his swing during the national anthem last night of Sixers-Knicks🏌️🏾😅(via @alexdaysports) pic.twitter.com/CsKChSqr9L

— https://x.com/ClutchPoints/status/2112930764861952050

The controversy stemmed from the season-opening game where television cameras captured James moving through physical routines during the pre-game anthem. Trump escalated his remarks during a Thursday evening appearance in Iowa, describing the incident as a “story that is like a big scandal.”

Nick Nurse Addresses External Distractions Around the Team

Nick Nurse faced questions regarding the political back-and-forth during his pre-game media availability. Nurse sought to redirect focus toward routine preparations on the hardwood.

“I think it fits seamlessly with the other external distractions we’ve already had to deal with,” Nurse told reporters. “I keep saying the same thing: The only thing that really matters to me is that the players get to practice, that they go to video analysis, and that they are on the court. The concentration they show and their determination are simply outstanding.”

During the anthem prior to tip-off against the Cavaliers, James shifted slightly from one foot to the other but otherwise stood quietly.

Philadelphia 76ers Overcome a 29-Point Deficit Against Cleveland

On the court, the 76ers overcame early struggles to secure a 114–106 victory over Cleveland, marking the franchise’s largest comeback win in 30 years. Philadelphia fell behind by as many as 29 points before staging the rally.

James contributed 17 points and grabbed 10 rebounds to help seal the victory, marking the team’s second win in two games to open the season.