LeBron James responds to Trump’s criticism over national anthem: “It’s a slow news day at the office”

NBA champion LeBron James responded to U.S. President Donald Trump after the president criticized the basketball star for his behavior during the national anthem before a game, ESPN reported on October 23.

Trump used a post on his Truth Social platform to criticize James for continuing his warm-up exercises while the U.S. national anthem played before the October 20 matchup between the Philadelphia 76ers and the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden in New York.

James responded briefly on Thursday night, saying, “It’s a slow news day at the office, you know. Slow news day at the office.”

Video of the incident appeared to show James practicing a golf swing and taking a jump shot while standing alongside his teammates. Most of the other players remained still during the anthem.

“I said from the beginning that it’s no good, it’s a total disgrace. LeBron James should apologize to all those great American warriors and heroes who died for the American flag and everything our country represents,” Trump wrote on social media.

Before another game on the night of October 22, 76ers head coach Nick Nurse described the president’s remarks as another outside distraction facing his team.

“I think that fits right in with some more outside noise that we’ve already had. I keep saying the same thing. All I really care about is getting them practicing, watching film and getting them out on the floor. The focus they’ve had, the intent and all of that has been outstanding,” Nurse said.

The exchange drew attention to James’ actions during the anthem and the reaction from the president, while Nurse emphasized keeping his team focused on basketball.