Lakers’ LeBron James National Anthem Controversy Explained

Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James made headlines on Christmas Day for two very different reasons. On the court, the 40-year-old forward delivered several ferocious dunks in what would be his final game played at that age. Off the court, however, a brief pregame moment sparked a wave of backlash online, igniting debate over respect, patriotism, and perception.

What Happened?

During pregame festivities at Crypto.com Arena ahead of the Lakers’ matchup against the Houston Rockets, video surfaced showing James practicing his golf swing while “The Star-Spangled Banner” was playing. The clip, originally posted on ESPN’s TikTok account on Christmas Day, did not initially gain widespread attention.

That changed days later, when the video began circulating more widely on social media. As it gained traction, a segment of fans criticized James, accusing him of being disrespectful toward the national anthem.

The moment quickly became a lightning rod, with reactions ranging from mild disappointment to outright outrage—particularly among viewers who believe players should stand still and show visible reverence during the anthem.

Backlash From Critics

One of the most vocal critics was Craig Carton, a longtime LeBron James detractor, who addressed the clip on his podcast. Carton framed James’ actions as a sign of disrespect, not only toward the anthem but toward members of the military.

“If you want to disregard your coach and your teammates, do it on your own time,” Carton said, via Awful Announcing. “Don’t do it during my national anthem.”

Carton went on to accuse James of intentionally choosing the moment to practice his golf swing, interpreting it as a symbolic slight.

“He disrespects the national anthem… the self-appointed king decides that’s a good time to work on his golf swing,” Carton added.

Such commentary fueled the controversy further, drawing in fans and commentators across the sports media landscape. Some echoed Carton’s sentiments, while others pushed back, calling the criticism overblown and politically charged.

Context Matters

Notably, there is no league rule requiring players to stand at attention during the anthem, nor has the NBA issued any statement criticizing James’ behavior. Throughout his career, LeBron has been at the center of numerous social and political debates, often becoming a focal point for criticism regardless of intent.

Supporters argue that James’ actions were neither demonstrative nor disruptive. He did not gesture, speak, or attempt to draw attention to himself. To many, the moment appeared casual rather than confrontational—one that only became controversial after being reframed online.

As with many viral sports controversies, perception largely depended on viewpoint.

LeBron’s Growing Passion for Golf

The timing of the incident also intersects with James’ newfound love for golf, something he has openly discussed over the past year. The Lakers star admitted that he only began taking golf seriously this past offseason, after years of avoiding the sport despite encouragement from peers.

In an interview with Complex, James explained that golf appealed to him precisely because of its difficulty.

“It’s hard as shit—that’s exactly why,” James said. “I wanted a challenge, man. I just like being uncomfortable.”

James also described golf as one of the few places where he feels relatively unbothered, able to disconnect from the constant scrutiny that comes with his NBA stardom.

“It’s one of the few places where I can go and not get bothered as much,” he said. “Until the group behind us tells us to hurry the f— up.”

Even Affecting His Basketball Viewing

James’ immersion in golf culture has gone so far that he recently joked it’s limited how much NBA basketball he watches. After a Lakers game in Salt Lake City, he was asked about Utah Jazz guard Keyonte George and his development.

“I’m the wrong guy to ask,” James said with a laugh. “I watch YouTube golf these days.”

While said in jest, the comment highlighted how deeply James has leaned into golf as a mental escape during this stage of his career.

A Familiar Pattern

Ultimately, the national anthem controversy fits a familiar pattern in LeBron James’ career. Few athletes generate stronger reactions, positive or negative, from brief moments caught on camera. For critics, the clip reinforced existing grievances. For supporters, it was another example of a minor moment being magnified because of who James is.

What remains clear is that LeBron James did not address the controversy publicly, nor has the Lakers organization commented. As the season continues, attention is likely to shift back to basketball—where James, even at 40, continues to defy expectations.

Still, the episode serves as a reminder: with LeBron James, every moment is watched, interpreted, and debated, whether intended or not.

Notably, there is no league rule requiring players to stand at attention during the anthem, nor has the NBA issued any statement criticizing James’ behavior. Throughout his career, LeBron has been at the center of numerous social and political debates, often becoming a focal point for criticism regardless of intent.