LeBron James Subtly Disses Donald Trump After National Anthem Jibe

LeBron James is back on the court for his 24th season in the NBA. After impressing in last season’s playoffs, James committed to at least two more years with the Philadelphia 76ers.

Drafted with the No. 1 pick in 2003, no player has drawn as much attention as James throughout his stellar career. When he announced his departure from the Los Angeles Lakers in the summer, the entire NBA world turned into a frenzy.

All eyes were on the King on opening night when the 76ers took on the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. The arena was electric, and James was treated to some wild chants and heckling from some fans sitting courtside.

Despite the hostile environment, James impressed on his debut and led his team to a win in their season opener. While the win over the defending champions made headlines, there was another topic brewing on the side before it caught everyone’s attention.

United States President Donald Trump shared a clip and criticized James for disrespecting the National Anthem. He even demanded an apology from the four-time champion for his actions.

The clip spread like wildfire and seemed to even reach James himself. When asked about it during an interview, he shrugged off Trump’s latest criticism.

It’s a slow news day at the office, you know. Slow news day in the office.

LeBron James in his locker room interview

LeBron James responds to Donald Trump taking shots at him with a BRUTAL one liner: “Slow news day at the office, you know.” https://t.co/Y4Qa0lHD6a

— Deuce World🌃 (@deuceworldx) October 23, 2026

It is no breaking news that Donald Trump and James do not see eye to eye. It was not the first time the President took shots at the All-Time NBA leading scorer, and it certainly won’t be the last. He has publicly admitted that he dislikes the NBA icon in the past. Hence, it is not surprising that there is no love lost between the two.

Nick Nurse addressed outside noise after Donald Trump’s criticism of LeBron James

Poor and negative body language during the National Anthem has been a topic of discussion for a while now. James is not the first player to be called out for his actions.

Victor Wembanyama was criticized during the playoffs last season for crossing his arms during the Anthem, and most recently, the Team USA women’s players were called out for their antics when the Anthem was being played. Therefore, it was just a matter of time before James was caught up in the controversy as well.

During his press conference, the 76ers’ head coach said Trump’s comments were just another outside distraction his star-studded team has faced.

I think that goes right in with other outside noise we’ve already had. I keep saying the same thing. All I really care about is getting to the practice floor, getting them in the film room, getting them to the game floor. The focus that they’ve had and the intent and all the stuff like that has been outstanding.

Nick Nurse in his press conference

Wherever James goes, outside noise will follow. He may be in the last years of his career, but he continues to be the face of the league to this day. However, Nurse was unmoved by Trump’s comments and dismissed them as outside noise.

LeBron James enjoys dream home debut in 76ers comeback win

The arrival of LeBron James to the 76ers has turned them into legitimate championship contenders in many people’s eyes. The opening-night win over the Knicks was a statement performance by the King and his teammates.

Following their win on the road, the 76ers registered their first home victory of the season against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The win was a comeback for the ages as they mounted a 29-point comeback in the second half.

All five starters for the 76ers recorded double-digit points. Tyrese Maxey led the scorers with 32 points, while Joel Embiid and Jaylen Brown were the other two players to breach the 20-point mark with 24 and 21 points, respectively. James was the only player with a double-double as he ended his night with 17 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists.

It has been a strong start to the 2026-27 campaign for the 76ers. They are scheduled to take on the Milwaukee Bucks at the Xfinity Mobile Arena on October 24.

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