LeBron James Speaks Out After Being Called Out for ‘Disrespecting’ the US Anthem
LeBron James spoke up after some people said he was being disrespectful to the US national anthem before an NBA game.
LeBron, who plays for the Los Angeles Lakers, was seen standing apart from his teammates while “The Star-Spangled Banner” was playing. It looked like he was just stretching, but some fans didn’t like it after ESPN posted a TikTok with the caption: “Bron practicing his golf swing?”
Lots of fans jumped into the comments. One called him “the most unlikeable athlete in history” and got almost 3,000 likes. Another said, “Disrespecting the flag in the country that made him a millionaire.” Someone else wrote, “Show some respect please.”
But many fans didn’t see a problem. One said, “He’s just warming up to play a tough, 48-minute basketball game. That’s not disrespect.”
LeBron didn’t talk to the media after the game, which the Lakers lost 119-96 to the Houston Rockets on Christmas Day. Later, he posted on Instagram about his son, Bronny, and also shared a photo of a shot he made during a win against the Sacramento Kings.
LeBron, who has been playing golf more often lately, told reporters before the game that he’d “rather be at home with my family.” He said, “I love this game. I grew up watching the greatest players on Christmas Day. It’s always been an honor to play. But honestly, I’d like to be home on the couch with my family all day. Still, when it’s time to play, I go out and give it my all.”