In a recent college basketball game, all eyes were on Bronny James, the son of NBA legend LeBron James, as he made his debut for the USC Trojans. However, it was LeBron himself who became the center of attention, facing criticism for his alleged disrespect towards the national anthem.
LeBron James’ Courtside Presence During Son’s USC Debut Ignites Fresh Debate on National Anthem Conduct
Cameras captured the moment when LeBron James walked to his courtside seats with his daughter, coinciding with the performance of the national anthem on the court. What caught the attention of observers was the fact that James didn’t halt, doff his hat, or pay respect to the anthem. Instead, he continued towards his seat, seemingly unfazed by the solemn moment.
Lebron James hates the country that made him a billionaire.
He didn’t kneel. He literally went and sat down during the anthem.
Cancel him. pic.twitter.com/DlhqAhaRJg
— Joey Mannarino (@JoeyMannarinoUS) December 13, 2023
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.
Zero respect for the country that allowed him to become a billionaire.
Zero respect… pic.twitter.com/NaTmdeOabx
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) December 13, 2023
It's complete disrespect, especially when he sets an example as a role model for so many people around the world.
— Anthony Hughes (@CallMeAntwan) December 13, 2023
This action sparked a wave of disapproval from the social media community, with many expressing their disappointment and anger towards the NBA superstar. The incident quickly became a topic of discussion, with people questioning LeBron’s patriotism and respect for traditional symbols of the nation.
It is not the first time LeBron James has faced criticism for his supposed disrespect towards the national anthem. Back in 2019, a video clip shared by the NBA on ESPN showed James rallying the crowd just as the anthem was concluding before a Lakers game against the Los Angeles Clippers. His enthusiastic exclamation of “Let’s go!” while the anthem was still playing drew backlash on social media, with users accusing him of showing disrespect to the anthem.
Moreover, James has also been criticized for his stance on the NBA-China conflict. He publicly criticized Daryl Morey, the Houston Rockets general manager, for expressing support for the Hong Kong protestors. This incident further fueled the perception that LeBron James does not value national symbols and is willing to prioritize his business interests above issues of human rights and freedom.
While the focus of the game should have been on Bronny James, who played 16 minutes, scoring four points and contributing in various other aspects of the game, the controversy surrounding his father overshadowed his achievements. USC suffered a defeat against Long Beach State, with a final score of 84-79, but the attention remained fixated on LeBron James’ alleged disrespect towards the national anthem.
This incident once again highlights the ongoing debate surrounding patriotism and the role of athletes in expressing their views. While some argue that athletes should use their platform to bring attention to societal issues, others believe that they should show reverence for national symbols and traditions.
Read More: Watch Kid Sitting Courtside Trash LeBron James For Flopping During Game
In the end, the focus should shift back to the game itself and the young talent of Bronny James as he embarks on his college basketball journey. It is his skills and achievements on the court that should be celebrated, rather than the actions of his father that have stirred up so much controversy and debate.