LeBron James takes a seat during the national anthem at his son’s college debut.
NBA star LeBron James faces criticism for sitting on the bench during the national anthem at his son’s college debut for the University of Southern California. Video footage captures the Los Angeles Lakers forward entering USC’s Galen Center during the anthem, while the audience stands with hands over their hearts.
The four-time NBA champion is observed promptly taking a seat with his daughter and keeping his hat on throughout the anthem.
His actions faced swift criticism from conservatives across social media.
“LeBron James is an absolute piece of garbage!!!” one user posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. “Show some RESPECT for the National Anthem!!”
“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,” another user commented. “Shameful.”
“He has no respect for the men & women that gave their life to allow him to play a game for a living that provides his family with generational wealth,” according to one post. “He’s a scumbag POS.”
The reporter who captured James sitting during the anthem attempted to defend the NBA’s all-time leading scorer.
“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. It’s objectively the best time to walk in so he doesn’t cause a massive stir. Stop it.”
