NBA superstar LeBron James is once again facing backlash for his actions. A video clip of James walking into his son’s college basketball game and taking a seat while the National Anthem was playing has gone viral, sparking outraged reactions from many.
The 34-second clip, which does not show the entire playing of the anthem, has garnered more than 3.9 million views in less than 24 hours. Comments on the video expressed disappointment and anger, with many calling James disrespectful towards the country which made him a basketball star and a billionaire.
Conservative commentator Collin Rugg shared the video on social media, denouncing James’ behavior. “LeBron James casually walks into the basketball arena while the National Anthem is playing and takes a seat,” Rugg wrote. “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 for the men and women who defend our country so he can live his life. Shameful.”
This is not the first time James has faced criticism for his views on the United States. Last year, he made controversial comments about WNBA star Brittney Griner, who was detained in Russia at the time. James suggested that Griner shouldn’t even want to come back to America. “Now, how can she feel like America has her back?” he said. “I would be feeling like, ‘Do I even want to go back to America?'”
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
In 2017, James made a statement about how the U.S. is a “racist” and “oppressive” country. “When you wake up and you’re black, that is what it is,” he said. “It shouldn’t be a movement. It should be a lifestyle. This is who we are.” His comments incited controversy and criticism, with many questioning his perspective on race relations in America.
The recent video of James walking into his son’s game and not standing for the National Anthem adds fuel to the ongoing debate about his views on the country. While some have defended his right to peaceful protest, others find his actions disrespectful and unpatriotic.
Despite the backlash, James has not responded to the criticism. As a highly influential figure in the world of sports, his actions and words hold weight and can have a significant impact. It remains to be seen how this latest controversy will affect his reputation and the ongoing conversations about race and patriotism in America.
For now, the video continues to circulate online, with people expressing their opinions and reactions. As one of the most well-known and successful athletes in the world, James’ actions and words will always generate attention and debate.