Home Basketball LeBron James criticized for ‘zero respect’ after entering USC arena and sitting throughout national anthem before son Bronny’s college debut

LeBron James criticized for ‘zero respect’ after entering USC arena and sitting throughout national anthem before son Bronny’s college debut

Basketball — 12/15/2023

LeBron James was criticized for entering Galen Center at USC during the national anthem before his son Bronny’s Sunday Trojans debut. 

James’ entrance footage shared by Orange County Register reporter Luca Evans on X on Tuesday sparked outrage about the Lakers star having ‘zero regard’ for the US.

The video shows James entering the arena with his daughter Zhuri, younger son Bryce, and Sierra Canyon High School teammates. During ‘The Star-Spangled Banner,’ James sat courtside with several press members shooting pictures of him. 

“Zero respect for the country that gave him the chance to be a basketball star,” one commenter remarked. He had no respect for the country that made him rich.

Without respect for the me𝚗 and wоmen who defend our country, he can live. Shameful.’

LeBron James was criticized for entering Galen Center at USC during the national anthem

LeBron James was slammed for entering USC Galen Center during the national anthem.

James walked in and sat down during 'The Star-Spangled Banner' for son Bronny's USC debut

James entered and sat down during ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ for son Bronny’s USC debut.

Evans responded to criticism by defending James’ national anthem entry. 

‘As the reporter who captured this video, this is horrible and uttеrly mischaracterizes the scenario,’ Evans stated. 

Bronny says LeBron has done this for years at Sierra Canyon. This is the greatest time to enter so he doesn’t cause a scene. Stop it.’

Users commented against Evans’ gesture after his response. 

‘I can see the walking in during this part,’ said one user. Sitting down is impolite. I see no other way.

‘So what you are basically saying is that Lebron has been constantly disrespectful,’ wrote another. You can enter during the National Anthem. You remove your hat and stand at your seat, not sit.

LeBron was often up and down during Bronny’s college debut. Bronny, who committed to USC earlier this year, missed the first eight games after a heart episode in July. 

I can’t express how emotional today was! James posted after the game on Instagram. I’m exhausted, but @bronny you’re amazing! 

Bronny played his first game for the Trojans on Sunday after suffering a cardiac arrest in July

Bronny made his Trojans debut on Sunday after a heart arrest in July. 

Dаmn the inevitable triumphs and losses. You’ve won life, the ultimate championship! Love you kid, and you gave me life today! I appreciate and love you.

Bronny scored four points, three rebounds, and two assists as USC lost against Long Beach State 84-79. 

Troy leads the Pac 12 with a 5-4 record and faces Auburn on December 17.