The essentials
James replied to Trump’s anthem criticism with a brief remark, while coach Nick Nurse called the criticism outside noise.
LeBron James responded to criticism from President Donald Trump with a single line: “Must’ve been a slow news day at the office.” Trump had called James’s conduct during the national anthem at a 76ers game against the New York Knicks a disgrace. During the anthem, James mimed a golf swing and jump shot while most of his teammates stood still.
Sixers coach Nick Nurse addressed the criticism separately, describing Trump’s comments as part of the outside noise surrounding the team.
Earlier reporting noted that James had not publicly responded to the criticism as of Thursday afternoon, so his reply marks a change in that status. The response does not directly address the anthem movements, and the reasons behind them remain unstated.
Other ways to read this story.
Alternative framings generated by SigNews. These are not independent sources or attributed quotations.
LeBron James Meets Trump Criticism With Dry, Pointed Response
James’s reply treats Trump’s post as a minor matter, using a single sarcastic line rather than a formal rebuttal. By keeping his answer short, he avoided extended commentary on the anthem itself. Readers may weigh whether the brevity signals indifference or a deliberate choice not to engage further with the criticism.
Sixers Coach Nick Nurse Frames Trump Criticism as Outside Noise
From the Sixers’ side, the focus is on separating the team from external commentary. Nurse’s description of the criticism as outside noise positions the matter as one the organization does not intend to engage with directly. This framing contrasts with James’s direct reply, showing two different approaches within the same franchise to a public dispute.