NBA star LeBron James was shown practicing his golf swing during the United States national anthem ahead of his 76ers debut on Tuesday. Later in the week, President Donald Trump called James’ conduct a “total disgrace” on social media.
The story itself is quite simple. James practiced his golf swing during “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Trump criticized him for this. And yet, ESPN’s headline editors apparently didn’t see it so clearly.
According to ESPN.com on Thursday, “Trump criticizes LeBron James for not standing still during the national anthem.”
Take a look:
Here’s the full clip of James during the national anthem:
Describing what James did as simply “not standing still” is a terribly charitable characterization. He didn’t move his feet or adjust his uniform. He was practicing his golf swing while the national anthem played.
The framing downplays the conduct at the center of the controversy. ESPN suggested that James’ behavior was harmless and that Trump’s criticism was excessive.
That was the goal. ESPN must feel obligated to protect James. The writers of the headlines must have also agreed that James was wrong. Otherwise, there would be no reason to disinfect it since James just couldn’t ‘stand still’.
At least athletes who kneel during the anthem usually claim they do so in protest. James offered no such explanation. He simply sought to mock the anthem.
President Donald Trump’s 2022 remarks about recruiting LeBron James to a women’s basketball team went viral in August 2026. (Getty Images)
It wasn’t the first time either. James was caught practicing his swing during the national anthem on Christmas Day last year.
There is something grating about a star American athlete who previously criticized NBA chief Daryl Morey for supporting Hong Kong protesters who are now behaving this way during the American national anthem.
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) speaks to a reporter after the game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center. (Stephen Lew/Imagn Images)
At this point in his career, the NBA must also ask itself how much James still benefits its brand.
James will be 42 in December. He’s averaged 15 points per game in his first two games this season and, unsurprisingly at his age, he’s just a shell of his former self.
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His basketball legacy is assured. James is one of the greatest players in NBA history. But he has become a net negative due to his declining play and consistent anti-American messages.
Gn sports
