Several years ago, Fox News host Laura Ingraham suggested that NBA player LeBron James “shut up and dribble.” The comment drew outrage from Democratic politicians, pundits, and James himself. A short time later, the manufactured controversy disappeared but many people still embraced Ingraham’s sentiments. James should be a beloved superstar. However, his frequent criticisms and (seemingly) general disdain for the country caused many people to view him unfavorably. He’s become the poster child for petulant wealthy elitists who hate the United States.
James’s most recent histrionics arguably warrant another “shut up and dribble” moment. First, while discussing the mass shooting at UNLV, James bemoaned firearms and criticized the nation’s gun laws (despite proving he knows very little about them). Then, while in attendance to watch his son play his first game at USC, a video revealed that James didn’t stand for the performance of the national anthem before the game started.
he video showed him walking to his seat while the national anthem was playing. Most people in stadiums stop what they are doing and respect the anthem when it is played. James, however, continued to walk to his courtside seats. James then sat down while the rest of the arena stood until the end. Moreover, he did not remove his hat while the anthem was played.
It was a slight that did not go unnoticed, including a response from former NBA player Enes Kanter Freedom. Freedom is of Turkish origin and lived in the country when he was younger before moving to the United States when he was 17. He has regularly criticized James’s behavior and lack of appreciation for the country.
Lebron James stands for whoever gives him money! He would have stood with his hand on his heart if that was the Chinese National Anthem!He has no respect for the men and women who defend our country, so that he can live his life freely.Poor example of leadership and an… pic.twitter.com/Ygef3vB6dc
— Enes FREEDOM (@EnesFreedom) December 14, 2023
“Lebron James stands for whoever gives him money! He would have stood with his hand on his heart if that was the Chinese National Anthem! He has no respect for the men and women who defend our country, so that he can live his life freely,” Freedom posted on X, formerly Twitter. “Poor example of leadership and an embarrassment to the #NBA. He has no respect for the country that allowed him to become a billionaire, and a worldwide basketball star.”
Freedom is correct and should be applauded for his post. James became famous because he was good at basketball. He then used his celebrity to trash the United States at any opportunity and regularly advance left-wing sociopolitical narratives. The obnoxious arrogance and narcissism James showed while sitting speaks volumes of his character — or lack thereof. He represents the anti-American cultural rot that is far too common among celebrity elitists today.
James can be critical of the country and regularly offer his opinions on social issues. He can hold any view and have any opinion he sees fit. That is his right as an American. However, his regular disrespect toward the nation that gave him generational wealth should not be tolerated. And if he doesn’t want to stand for the national anthem then fans in the country should not stand to applaud LeBron James.
