Another NBA star is speaking out.
President Donald Trump is gaining support from another former NBA star in his ongoing criticism of basketball superstar LeBron James, as controversy continues to grow over James’ behavior during the national anthem.
Former NBA champion Jason Williams has joined the discussion, delivering a strong message about how professional athletes should conduct themselves while “The Star-Spangled Banner” is being performed.
His comments follow similar criticism from NBA legend Charles Barkley, who also expressed disappointment with James’ actions.
The growing disagreement has renewed a national conversation about patriotism, respect for the American flag, and the responsibilities of high-profile professional athletes.
Former NBA Champion Takes Trump’s Side
Williams, who played 12 seasons in the NBA, addressed the controversy during a recent episode of the “Hoopin’ N Hollerin'” podcast.
The former point guard, who played for the Sacramento Kings, Memphis Grizzlies, Miami Heat, and Orlando Magic, made his position unmistakably clear.
Williams argued that players should simply remain still during the national anthem instead of continuing their usual movements or warmup routines.
His remarks came after footage showed James appearing to practice golf swings while the anthem played before a Philadelphia 76ers game.
Williams also questioned whether the NBA had disciplined James over his behavior.
The former champion suggested that the league previously enforced stricter standards regarding player conduct and appearance during the anthem.
However, there have been no reported NBA fines against James related to the incident.
While Williams did not declare broader political support for Trump, his criticism closely aligned with the president’s position on respecting the national anthem.
Trump Demands Respect For American Flag
The controversy began following Philadelphia’s October 20 game against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Video footage showed James making movements resembling golf swings while other players stood for the national anthem.
Trump responded publicly on October 22, condemning the basketball superstar’s conduct and calling for an apology.
The president argued that James had shown disrespect toward the nation and the Americans who sacrificed their lives defending its freedoms.
Trump’s criticism quickly attracted attention across the sports world, particularly because of his longstanding disagreements with James.
The NBA veteran has frequently criticized Trump and spoken publicly about political and social issues throughout his career.
James, however, appeared largely unconcerned by the president’s reaction.
When questioned about Trump’s comments, the basketball star dismissed the controversy by suggesting that it was a slow news day.
Charles Barkley Also Criticizes LeBron James
Williams is not the only prominent former basketball player to question James’ behavior.
NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley also criticized the incident, describing the apparent golf swings during the national anthem as disrespectful.
Barkley emphasized that he personally stands during the anthem because of what the ceremony represents.
He explained that honoring the national anthem is important to him, particularly as a show of appreciation for American freedoms and military service members.
Although Barkley made clear that he does not generally follow Trump’s political commentary, he nevertheless agreed with the president’s criticism of James’ behavior.
That distinction has become an important part of the story.
The national anthem controversy is drawing criticism from figures with different political opinions who share similar expectations about respect during sporting events.
National Anthem Controversy Sparks Wider Debate
The disagreement highlights a familiar divide over patriotism and personal expression in professional sports.
The national anthem has been a longstanding tradition at American sporting events, with athletes and spectators typically standing together before competition begins.
For many Americans, the ceremony represents an opportunity to recognize the country’s history, honor military veterans, and remember those who have served in uniform.
Others emphasize that professional athletes retain the freedom to express themselves, even when their behavior challenges traditional expectations.
James has repeatedly used his public platform to discuss political issues, making him one of the NBA’s most recognizable voices outside basketball.
However, critics argue that his public influence also brings greater responsibility to demonstrate respect during national ceremonies.
There is no indication that James intended his movements as a formal political protest.
Nevertheless, the footage has continued to generate criticism from several notable figures in basketball.
Another NBA Veteran Joins Growing Criticism
The controversy comes as James begins a new chapter of his basketball career with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Despite his accomplishments, including multiple NBA championships and decades of success, the veteran superstar remains a polarizing figure whenever sports and politics intersect.
Trump’s criticism, followed by comments from Barkley and Williams, has brought renewed attention to the expectations placed on professional athletes during the national anthem.
For Williams, the issue comes down to a straightforward principle: Players should show respect by remaining still while the anthem is performed.
For Trump, the disagreement carries broader significance because of the ceremony’s connection to American patriotism and military sacrifice.
Whether James will address the growing criticism further remains uncertain.
But with another former NBA champion now speaking out, the controversy demonstrates how a brief moment before a basketball game can become a much larger debate about American traditions, public conduct, and respect for the national anthem.