President Trump blasts LeBron James for national anthem decision
NBA notes
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PHILADELPHIA -- President Donald Trump on Thursday accused LeBron James of disrespecting the United States after the NBA star appeared to continue his warmups while the national anthem was performed before Philadelphia's season opener on Tuesday.
"I said right from the beginning that he's no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE," Trump said of James in a social media post sharing the video. "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 appeared to practice a golf swing and jump shot as "The Star-Spangled Banner" was performed Tuesday at New York's Madison Square Garden. James, starting his first season with Philadelphia, was lined up alongside teammates who mostly stood still during the anthem.
Trump and James have been critical of each other for years, occasionally trading public swipes.
The 41-year-old James, in his record 24th NBA season, made his home debut for the Sixers Thursday night against Cleveland, and he did not comment publicly or post on social media about Trump's gripe before the game.
James put his arms behind his back and bowed his head while Boyz II Men sang the anthem ahead of the opener. James was introduced to a roaring ovation from the crowd of roughly 20,000.
Coach Nick Nurse had talked at length since training camp opened about the Sixers' need to tune out outside distractions. Hours before their home opener, the Sixers had to deal with one from the president.
"I think that goes right in with other outside noise we've already had," Nurse said before the game. "I keep saying the same thing. All I really care about is getting to the practice floor, getting them in the film room, getting them to the game floor. The focus that they've had and the intent and all the stuff like that has been outstanding."
Traveling Ball
MIAMI -- Upon review, Minnesota's LaMelo Ball traveled.
Really, really traveled.
The association that represents NBA referees posted a clip from Wednesday night's game between the Timberwolves and the Miami Heat and clarified -- not that it needed much clarification -- that Ball indeed did commit a violation on his way to a 3-pointer in the second quarter of Minnesota's win.
"For everyone asking, "how is this legal?" It's not!" the referees' union wrote in a post on X. "He gathers with his right foot on the floor and would be permitted two steps by rule (left-right). He takes four steps after gathering the ball and travels."
Even Ball's brother, seven-year NBA player Lonzo Ball, got the call right moments after the play.
"Travel lmaoooo," Lonzo Ball posted.