IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Charles Barkley is weighing in on the LeBron James national anthem controversy.
During the Sixers-Knicks home opener last week, LeBron appeared to practice his golf swing on the sidelines as the national anthem played.
LeBron doing ANYTHING to disrespect the National Anthem https://t.co/TczsaaxoLg
— House of Lowlights (@HouseLowlights) October 21, 2026
President Trump and others would bash LeBron over his pregame antics during the anthem.
I said right from the beginning that he’s no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE,” Trump said. “LeBron James should apologize to all of those Great American Warriors and Heroes who died for the American Flag, and all that our Country stands for!”
During a recent podcast appearance, Barkley reacted to the national anthem controversy by calling LeBron “disrespectful.”
“I thought that was very disrespectful, practicing a golf swing in the middle of the anthem. I always stand for the anthem. I just think it’s important. We live in the greatest country ever where you can always protest, but I think you have to be very careful with the anthem.”
“[LeBron] was very disrespectful, but I don’t ever pay any attention to what President Trump says.”
When asked about Trump’s comment, LeBron responded by saying “It must be a slow news day at the office.”
Charles Barkley reacts to LeBron practicing his golf swing during the national anthem and Donald Trump’s criticism.
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