Charles Barkley condemns LeBron James for golf swings during national anthem

Clear Facts

• Charles Barkley called LeBron James’s practice golf swings during the national anthem disrespectful.
• Barkley stated he stands for the anthem and supports the troops, emphasizing its importance.
• James has repeated this behavior multiple times, including during a 2023 USC game and last Christmas with the Lakers.

Charles Barkley expressed strong disapproval of LeBron James’s decision to practice golf swings on the court while the national anthem played before the Philadelphia 76ers’ game earlier this month. The longtime NBA analyst made his comments on SiriusXM NBA Radio. Barkley noted that such actions show a lack of respect for a moment meant to honor the country and its traditions.

President Donald Trump also criticized James for the incident, calling him a “total disgrace.” Barkley made clear he does not pay attention to Trump’s opinions on other matters, but he agreed that the behavior during the anthem was inappropriate. He stressed that Americans have the right to protest, yet the anthem deserves special respect.

“I don’t pay what President Trump says any attention, first and foremost, at all,” Barkley said. “But I thought that was very disrespectful, practicing your 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.”

Barkley explained that standing for the anthem is his way of supporting the troops and upholding free speech. He repeated his belief that the anthem holds unique significance and should not be treated casually.

“I look at it, I’m supporting the troops when I stand for the national anthem,” Barkley continued. “I’m standing there for free speech, so even though I believe in free speech, I think you have to be very careful with the anthem. I always stand for the anthem. I think it’s important, and I think it’s significant.”

This is not the first time James has performed golf swings during the anthem. He did the same thing last Christmas while with the Los Angeles Lakers before a loss to the Houston Rockets. In 2023, James arrived late to a USC game to watch his son Bronny and sat down with his hat on while the anthem played and the crowd stood in respect.

Critics argue that these repeated actions demonstrate a pattern of disregarding a moment meant to unite Americans and honor the nation’s values. Barkley’s comments reflect a broader concern that public figures should model respect for foundational traditions rather than treating them as optional.

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