LeBron James’ Philadelphia 76ers debut on Tuesday drew attention even before the opening tip-off. During the national anthem at Madison Square Garden, James appeared to practice golf swings and take imaginary basketball shots while standing with his teammates.
The footage circulated online after Philadelphia’s 106-100 victory over the reigning champion New York Knicks, drawing criticism from former ESPN anchor Linda Cohn. The longtime sportscaster questioned James’ behavior on Thursday and pointed to the scrutiny WNBA players faced for their actions during the national anthem at the Finals.
Linda Cohn Reacts to LeBron James’ National Anthem Controversy
Speaking on “The Linda Cohn Show,” Cohn criticized the former Los Angeles Lakers star for what she considered inappropriate behavior during the anthem.
“What is LeBron James doing?” Cohn said. “He’s acting like a three-year-old. He’s at the end of the line, the anthem is being played, and he’s practicing his golf swing. He’s doing a number of repetitions with his golf swing, and then he’s shooting air hoops, practicing his shot.”
The veteran broadcaster compared his behavior to that of a child who “can’t sit still.” She also acknowledged her admiration for the 41-year-old as one of the NBA’s greatest players, saying she couldn’t understand his actions.
“I’m in shock,” Cohn continued. “… LeBron, were you jealous of the attention the WNBA players were getting? ‘Cause they just stormed off the court before the anthem played and came back on when the anthem was over. You are standing there and playing childish games.”
The former longtime “SportsCenter” host was referring to the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries, whose players left the court before the national anthem during the WNBA Finals and returned afterward. Their actions also drew scrutiny, including from Vice President JD Vance, who publicly criticized the players.
President Donald Trump also slammed the four-time MVP in a Truth Social post, calling him a “TOTAL DISGRACE” and demanding an apology for what Trump viewed as disrespect toward the anthem.
“While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country! I said right from the beginning that he’s no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE,” Trump wrote. “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!”
James finished with 14 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists, shooting 5-for-13 (38.5%) as Philadelphia defeated New York.
This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.