LeBron James Faces Fury Over Antics During National Anthem: ‘Insufferable’

NBA superstar LeBron James is facing a fresh wave of backlash after cameras caught him repeatedly practicing an imaginary golf swing during the national anthem before the Philadelphia 76ers’ season opener against the New York Knicks.

The bizarre pregame antics sparked outrage among basketball fans, with critics accusing the outspoken athlete of disrespecting the American flag and turning a patriotic tradition into his personal practice session.

James, now playing for Philadelphia, was filmed making several golf-swing motions while the national anthem played ahead of the team’s 106-100 victory over the defending NBA champions.

The footage quickly circulated across social media, where furious fans blasted the basketball legend for his behavior.

“Can’t hate him enough. Every year he gets more insufferable,” one X user wrote.

Another accused the NBA star of showing blatant disrespect toward the country.

“This is incredibly disrespectful. Look at LeBron during our National Anthem. An Anti-American,” the commenter declared.

LeBron decided to practice his golf swing during the national anthem last night. I can’t wait until he retires, he’s been toxic for the entire NBA. https://t.co/wTusZifdla

— Clay Travis (@ClayTravis) October 22, 2026

The controversy overshadowed what had otherwise been a successful opening night for James.

The veteran forward recorded 14 points, nine rebounds and seven assists, helping Philadelphia secure a victory over New York.

James has been adjusting to a different role with the 76ers, contributing alongside the team’s primary scorers rather than carrying the offensive load himself.

But his performance on the court wasn’t what had fans talking afterward.

Instead, viewers focused on his decision to repeatedly mimic swinging a golf club while the national anthem was being performed.

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“Once again… LeBron seeking attention, and when you point it out, His fanbase says you’re hating,” another fan complained.

Others questioned why James would choose that particular moment to practice his golf swing.

“Doing this once is weird. Doing it multiple times during the national anthem is just disrespectful. Bro really treats it like pregame golf practice,” one critic wrote.

Another viewer suggested the basketball superstar knew exactly how much attention his actions would attract.

“Performative. Knows all eyes are on him. Dude loves attention. S—- golf swing, BTW,” the fan posted.

The backlash comes amid renewed scrutiny of professional athletes’ conduct during the national anthem.

Players from the Atlanta Dream and Golden State Valkyries recently drew attention after leaving the court during the anthem, intensifying debate over how athletes should observe the patriotic ceremony.

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James has also been outspoken about American politics throughout his career, frequently criticizing President Donald Trump and weighing in on controversial national issues.

That history has led some critics to interpret his latest actions as a deliberate political statement.

However, there is no confirmation that James intended his golf-swing motions as a protest against Trump, the national anthem or the United States.

The basketball star has reportedly made similar gestures during previous anthem performances, suggesting the behavior is not necessarily new.

Still, that explanation has done little to quiet the criticism from fans who believe athletes should stand respectfully during the national anthem.

James has not publicly addressed the latest controversy, and there is no indication that he intends to respond.

For now, the 76ers may have opened their season with a victory, but James’ unusual pregame routine has become the bigger story for some fans.

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