LeBron Finds Time for Golf Practice During National Anthem, Critics Wonder If Tee Time Was Running Late

PHILADELPHIA — Most athletes use the national anthem as a moment to stand still, look respectful, and wait for the game to start. Apparently, LeBron James had other plans. During a pregame anthem before the Philadelphia 76ers’ season opener against the New York Knicks, James was caught on video repeatedly mimicking a golf swing and later transitioning into a basketball shooting motion while teammates stood at attention. [

The video quickly spread online, generating criticism from fans and commentators who viewed the antics as disrespectful. Critics questioned whether the roughly minute-long anthem was truly too much downtime for one of the most recognizable athletes on the planet.

The moment did not go unnoticed in political circles. President Donald Trump blasted James on social media, calling him a “TOTAL DISGRACE” and demanding that he apologize for what Trump characterized as disrespect toward the country and those who served under its flag.

James, however, appeared thoroughly unimpressed by the controversy. When asked about the criticism after a game, he dismissed the matter with a brief response: “Must be a slow news day at the office.”

This also was not the first time James has been seen going through golf-swing motions during the anthem. Similar videos circulated while he was with the Los Angeles Lakers, leading to previous complaints that the NBA superstar seemed more focused on his handicap than the ceremony taking place around him.

To be fair, James has become increasingly interested in golf and has spoken publicly about promoting the sport and making it more accessible to younger players.

Still, many observers were left scratching their heads. Of all the possible windows available for practicing an imaginary backswing, choosing the national anthem struck critics as an odd choice. Golf courses tend to be open for hours. The anthem generally lasts about a minute.

The incident has reignited a familiar debate over athlete conduct during patriotic ceremonies. Supporters see the backlash as overblown. Detractors argue that standing still for a brief ceremonial moment isn’t exactly an Olympic-level challenge.

Either way, James succeeded in accomplishing something unusual: turning a pregame anthem into a discussion about golf. For a player nearing the end of a legendary basketball career, that’s an impressive shot, even if it never left the tee.