Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James was slammed after not standing during the National Anthem for his son Bronny’s first collegiate basketball game after he suffered a cardiac arrest over the summer.
In a viral video posted to X, formerly known as Twitter, recorded by Orange County Register reporter Luca Evans, James, 38, is seen entering the arena at Sierra Canyon High School on Tuesday with his daughter while “The Star-Spangled Banner” is playing. He then proceeds to sit down.
Users on X criticized the athlete for his lack of “respect.”
“LeBron James casually walks into the basketball arena while the National Anthem is playing and takes a seat. Zero respect for the country that gave him the opportunity to be a basketball star,” Trending Politics co-owner Collin Rugg wrote in the caption of the video.
He continued to scorch James for having “Zero respect for the country that allowed him to become a billionaire.”
“Zero respect for the men and women who defend our country so he can live his life. Shameful,” he continued.
Another user accused James of being “entitled.”
“He refuses to show support for the country that made him a billionaire. James loves to get involved in politics and speak out but refuses to say anything bad about China,” the user wrote.
Another user shared, “LeBron James is also teaching his daughter that it’s ok to disrespect the National Anthem. Fatherhood Fail.”
However, Evans defended James and slammed Ruggs for his commentary on the video.
“As the reporter who took this video, this is gross and completely mischaracterizes the situation. LeBron has done this for YEARS in Bronny’s time at Sierra Canyon,” he shared.
Evans added, “It’s objectively the best time to walk in so he doesn’t cause a massive stir. Stop it.”
