LeBron James reacts as Trump seeks apology over ‘disrespect’ to national anthem, ‘Slow news day in the office’

Trump called on LeBron James to apologize after sharing video of him warming up during the national anthem. James responded with a quip.

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James was seen on the court completing his warm-up routine while the national anthem was being performed before the Philadelphia 76ers' Tuesday evening matchup against the defending NBA Champion New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Video footage showed James extending his arms and rotating his torso, seemingly executing movements reminiscent of a golf swing.

Trump says LeBron James should apologize

Trump was quick to share a video capturing James in that particular instance. Taking to Truth Social, the POTUS wrote, "While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country. LeBron James should apologize to all of those Great American Warriors and Heroes who died for the American Flag, and all that our Country stands for!"

LeBron James reacts

James responded following Philadelphia's Thursday evening home inaugural contest and comeback victory against his previous organization, the Cleveland Cavaliers, delivering a witty quip when questioned regarding Trump's remarks.

"It's a slow news day at the office, you know. Slow news day in the office," James told reporters.

Also Read: Indianapolis Colts QB Anthony Richardson Sr. charged with marijuana possession in Hamilton County

76ers head coach Nick Nurse weighs in

76ers head coach Nick Nurse reacted to Trump's remarks, saying they were "right in with all the other outside noise we've already had."

"All I really care about is getting them to the practice floor, getting in the film room, getting them to the game floor. And the focus that they've had and the intent and all the stuff they've had has been excellent," Nurse said.

Trump vs LeBron

LeBron James and former President Donald Trump have engaged in a series of public criticisms spanning since 2017, when the four-time NBA Most Valuable Player referred to the then-president as a “bum” following the White House's withdrawal of an invitation to the Golden State Warriors. James subsequently remarked that visiting Washington, D.C. had been an honor "until you showed up."

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  Shweta Kukreti has over 8 years of experience in covering Indian and world politics. She joined the Hindustan Times in 2024 and is primarily assigned to the US desk. She currently works as Deputy Chief Content Producer and reports on a wide range of topics, including US politics, immigration issues (especially H-1B visa) and major global events. Shweta strongly emphasizes team operations, which encompasses monitoring news, delegating tasks, editing, developing comprehensive coverage strategies, and crafting engaging, and data-informed narratives. She received the Digi Star Award at the Hindustan Times within a year of joining for her broad coverage of US politics. In 2025, she earned both a promotion and a redesignation, a significant achievement recognising her contributions and the strong value she brings to the team. She has previously worked with the Indian Express, HTDS, ANI and Republic World. Seniors in all the media organisations recognised her work. Regarding education, she earned a BA (Hons.) in Political Science and a master's degree from Delhi University, and she pursued a PG Diploma in English Journalism from the Indian Institution of Mass Communication (IIMC). She also holds a diploma in Women's Empowerment and Development from IGNOU University and a French certification course from Alliance Française de Delhi. If not working, you can find her exploring the hills and engaging in adventurous activities in Rishikesh and Himachal Pradesh. She loves to play badminton, volleyball, and chess, and spend time with her friends and family. She also enjoys spiritual activities.Read More