Online vitriol ensued after a clip showed NBA superstar LeBron James sitting down with his hat on during the national anthem while attending a University of Southern California (USC) basketball game on Dec. 12 where his son made a stunning comeback to the court.
Mr. James is seen entering the court just as the national anthem begins, accompanied by his 8-year-old daughter Zhuri, who is carrying a large tablet and a backpack.
As others listen to the anthem with hands over their hearts, Mr. James and his daughter walk along the courtside, a companion shows them their seats, and they sit down. Mr. James puts down a handbag and a water bottle.
Taken by Orange County Register reporter Luca Evans, the video cuts off just as Mr. James gets up, about 10 seconds after sitting down.
“Zero respect for the country that gave him the opportunity to be a basketball star,” wrote internet personality Collin Rugg as he shared the video online.
‘Yikes. Not the Best Look’
“Zero respect for the country that allowed him to become a billionaire. Zero respect for the men and women who defend our country so he can live his life. Shameful.”
“Yikes. Not the best look,” someone said, as comments ranged from disappointment to intense outrage.
“He should move to Eastern Europe and try to make his 1 billion dollars there. Or China! He could disrespect America all he wants there. But he won’t because he’s a coward. Shame on him” and “Once a thug, always a thug” were some of the less pleasant remarks.
“He’s a good dad and husband from what I’ve seen,” Mr. Rugg answered. “But has almost no respect for his country. Sad.”
Mr. Evans came to the NBA superstar’s defense.
“As the reporter who took this video, this is gross and completely mischaracterizes the situation,” he wrote.
“LeBron has done this for YEARS in Bronny’s time at Sierra Canyon. It’s objectively the best time to walk in so he doesn’t cause a massive stir. Stop it.”
However, his plea did not seem overly convincing to everyone.
“So you’re saying he disrespects the anthem a lot. Thanks for clearing that up,” someone commented.
The game Mr. James attended was his 19-year-old son’s college debut for Southern California, coming off the bench for the first time, against California State University, Long Beach.
Bronny James was considered one of the most promising young players in the United States when five months ago he collapsed from a cardiac arrest on court during a workout. He was recently cleared by his doctors and USC’s medical staff to participate in the competition.
The young James played six minutes in the first half. He made a spectacular block, sending the crowd into cheers, and re-entered the game about seven minutes into the second half.
He finished with four points, three rebounds and two assists in 16 minutes as USC lost 84-79 in overtime.
