Trump questions James’ motives amid Sixers move and Jordan comparison
Donald Trump’s remarks at a White House news conference follow LeBron James’ historic contract decision with the Philadelphia 76ers.
United States President Donald Trump has suggested that NBA star LeBron James may be “a racist” or simply holds a personal dislike for him, during a White House news conference addressing the basketball player’s recent career move. The comments were made when the President was asked to compare James with Michael Jordan regarding who is the “best ever” to play the sport.
Trump stated he preferred Jordan, citing their personal relationship as the primary factor. “Michael Jordan is a guy that's a friend of mine. I play golf with him. He's a really good guy,” Trump said. He added, “I think LeBron is, maybe he's a racist, but maybe he doesn't like Trump. I don't know. I only like people that like me, so I would say Michael Jordan all the way.”
The remarks followed James’ announcement on Friday that he will continue his career with the Philadelphia 76ers. The 41-year-old forward has signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the team, a deal reported as the smallest salary of his career and the most significant pay cut in NBA history. James declined opportunities to return to the Los Angeles Lakers or the Cleveland Cavaliers, choosing instead to join a Philadelphia roster featuring All-Stars Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Jaylen Brown.
James has been a regular critic of Trump during his presidency, having endorsed Democratic candidates Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden, and Kamala Harris in their respective campaigns against the President. In 2017, James referred to Trump as “a bum” following a dispute over invitations to the White House for NBA-winning teams. James has won four NBA titles with the Miami Heat, the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Los Angeles Lakers, and is the league’s all-time leader in points and games played.
Jordan, aged 63, won six NBA titles with the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s and was named NBA Most Valuable Player five times. James is aiming to secure a fifth championship with the 76ers. He has not yet responded to Trump’s comments.
