Stephen A. Smith has defended LeBron James after Donald Trump criticised the Philadelphia 76ers star over his behaviour during the US national anthem, arguing that the NBA legend should not be judged by a single moment.
The ESPN personality acknowledged that James’ actions may not have been well received but insisted his career and conduct as a role model deserved greater consideration.
Trump called James a “total disgrace” after footage showed the forward stretching and appearing to mimic a golf swing while the anthem played before Philadelphia’s game against the New York Knicks.
Stephen A. Smith pushes back on Donald Trump’s LeBron James criticism
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Smith praised James’ standing in basketball and his reputation throughout his career.
He said: “LeBron James as a role model, as a champion, is one of the greatest and belongs on the Mount Rushmore of those categories in American, if not world history. That’s how phenomenal he has been. He does not deserve to be viewed as some unpatriotic individual. Not at all.”
Smith acknowledged that James’ behaviour during the anthem was open to criticism but argued it should not overshadow his wider achievements.
“I’m not here to tell you that it was a good look what LeBron did,” Smith continued. “I’m here to tell you that his history of professionalism, of decorum, and of handling himself like a role model should take precedence over one moment in which he was listening to the national anthem and feigning a golf swing. He deserves better than that from us.”
Smith also suggested that Trump’s criticism could serve a political purpose, claiming the president was trying to galvanise public support ahead of the midterm elections.
James himself has now responded to the controversy, dismissing the president’s comments after Philadelphia’s comeback victory over Cleveland.
“Yeah, yeah, must be a slow news day at the office,” James told reporters. “A slow news day in the office.”
The 76ers star recorded 17 points and 10 rebounds in the 114-106 win, helping his new team recover from a 29-point deficit against his former side.
Philadelphia coach Nick Nurse also played down the distraction, insisting his priority was keeping the team focused on preparation and performance.
With the 76ers making a strong start to the season, James will now be looking to keep the attention on basketball as the team builds momentum.
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