LeBron James slammed for having ‘zero respect’ after entering USC arena and sitting in the middle of the national anthem before son Bronny’s college debut – but reporter who filmed clip says it is NOT how it seems
- Bronny James played his first game for USC following a cardiac arrest in July
- LeBron entered the arena during the national anthem to avoid a ‘massive stir’
- DailyMail.com provides all the latest international sports news
LeBron James faced criticism for entering Galen Center at USC during the national anthem before his son Bronny’s debut with the Trojans on Sunday.
On Tuesday, a video posted Orange County Register reporter Luca Evans of James’ entrance was picked up on X and caused users to erupt about the Lakers star having ‘zero respect’ for the US.
The video shows James walking into the arena with his daughter Zhuri, younger son Bryce and a few of his Sierra Canyon High School teammates. While the rest of the arena stood during ‘The Star-Spangled Banner,’ James got situated in his courtside seat while surrounded by several press members taking pictures of his arrival.
‘Zero respect for the country that gave him the opportunity to be a basketball star,’ one user wrote. ‘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.’
LeBron James was criticized for entering Galen Center at USC during the national anthem
James walked in and sat down during ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ for son Bronny’s USC debut
Evans pushed back on the criticism, defending James’ choice to enter during the national anthem.
‘As the reporter who took this video, this is gross and completely mischaracterizes the situation,’ Evans 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, Evans’ response led to more comments from users who disagreed with the gesture.
‘I can see the walking in during this part,’ one user commented. ‘The sitting down though is pretty disrespectful. Can’t see it any other way tbh.’
‘So what you are actually saying is that Lebron has been consistently disrespectful,’ another wrote. ‘It is OK to come in during the National Anthem. You simply remove your hat and the remain standing when you get to your seat, not plop yourself down.’
LeBron did not remain seated for long as was frequently off his seat during Bronny’s collegiate debut. Bronny, who committed to USC earlier this year, missed the first eight games of the season after suffering a cardiac arrest in July.
‘Can’t even tell y’all how EMOTIONAL today was for me!’ James wrote on Instagram following the game. ‘I’m literally drained and all I can say is @bronny you’re simply INCREDIBLE!!
Bronny played his first game for the Trojans on Sunday after suffering a cardiac arrest in July
‘Damn the wins and loses that will occur. You’ve already won the ultimate goal/championship and that’s LIFE!!! Proud of you kid and today you’ve given me more life! Thank you and I love you’
Bronny tallied four points, three rebounds and two assists as USC fell, 84-79, against Long Beach State.
The Trojans currently lead the Pac 12 with a 5-4 record and will face Auburn on December 17.
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