Stephen A. Smith thinks President Donald Trump went too far by branding LeBron James a “total disgrace,” and he believes politics may be behind the personal attack.
The outspoken ESPN personality defended the NBA legend on Mad Dog Sports Radio, questioning why the president would publicly condemn James over a few seconds of movement during the national anthem. According to Smith, the controversy could benefit Trump politically with the midterm elections approaching.
“It makes LeBron James a politically expedient tool to use as the midterms approach, because it’s about 10 days away,” said Smith.
The beef began when a video from the Philadelphia 76ers’ Oct. 20 season opener against the New York Knicks showed James performing movements resembling a basketball shot and golf swing while the anthem played.
Donald Trump is coming after LeBron James, but let’s be CLEAR… this is BIGGER than basketball! Is Trump using LeBron to rally his political base ahead of the midterm elections? I’ve got some THOUGHTS on that! Watch my FULL breakdown on YouTube! https://t.co/oD7LDXkcLL
— Stephen A Smith (@stephenasmith) October 23, 2026
Trump accused the 41-year-old superstar of disrespecting the country and demanded an apology to fallen military personnel.
Smith conceded that James’ behavior might not sit well with everyone but argued that calling him a disgrace ignored his decades of success and influence.
While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country! I said right from the beginning that he’s no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE. LeBron James should apologize to all of those Great American Warriors and Heroes who died for the American Flag, and all that our Country stands for! President DONALD J. TRUMP ( TS: Oct 22 2026, 12:22 PM ET )
— Commentary Donald J. Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) October 22, 2026
The four-time NBA champion didn’t appear particularly bothered by the president’s condemnation.
After Philadelphia’s Oct. 22 win over Cleveland, James brushed off the controversy when reporters asked about Trump’s comments.
“It must be a slow news day at the office,” he replied.