USC Basketball: Hoops Fans Chide LeBron James For Gaffe During Bronny's First Game

LeBron James became a point of controversy for entering Bronny James' USC debut.

Where would the world be without ridiculous takes on the internet? Maybe in a much better spot, but that is not the case currently. The USC Trojans took on Long Beach State on December 10, which was exciting for a big reason: the debut of Bronny James. 

James had suffered cardiac arrest months before his return to basketball, which led many to believe he may not see the court again. Thankfully, his harrowing health scare was cleared by doctors, allowing the son of LeBron James to follow in his footsteps. 

That was exactly what happened when Bronny James stepped on the court. Though his minutes were restricted, the young player performed a behind-the-back block which was very reminiscent of LeBron's same skillset. 

LeBron was in attendance, as he told reporters he would skip a Lakers game if it coincided with his son's debut. Though the event was meant to be a happy occurrence, X (formerly Twitter) was filled with people chastizing LeBron for his choice of entering the game. 

LeBron James makes his entrance at the Galen Center for Bronny James’ debut during the national anthem, holding daughter Zhuri’s hand. Accompanied by Bryce James and two of his Sierra Canyon teammates, Bryce Cofield and Jayden Alexander. pic.twitter.com/tN0iSMhkJA

— Luca Evans (@bylucaevans) December 10, 2023

LeBron James entered the game with his family in tow, which was showcased by Luke Evans of the OC Register. Despite this being the most opportune moment for him to enter the game, political pundits used it as a chance to accuse James of disrespecting the National Anthem.

LeBron James casually walks into the basketball arena while the National Anthem is playing and takes a seat.

Zero respect for the country that gave him the opportunity to be a basketball star.

Zero respect for the country that allowed him to become a billionaire.

Zero respect… https://t.co/NaTmdeOabx

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) December 13, 2023

LeBron James just completely disrespects America, sits down during the national anthem. pic.twitter.com/RwQrIu3d91

— Libby Emmons (@libbyemmons) December 13, 2023

Lebron James disrespected the National Anthem. pic.twitter.com/FW8kk0Juv7

— Terrence K. Williams (@w_terrence) December 13, 2023

LeBron James has been very outspoken in terms of political subjects, and he has become a target for many pundits to attack his loyalty to America. Naturally, this led to a response from Evans, who was the originator of the video. 

As the reporter who took this video, this is gross and completely mischaracterizes the situation. LeBron has done this for YEARS in Bronny’s time at Sierra Canyon. It’s objectively the best time to walk in so he doesn’t cause a massive stir. Stop it. https://t.co/Dp86xxKKfL

— Luca Evans (@bylucaevans) December 13, 2023

People will use anything and everything to try and attack LeBron James as if he was intentionally disrespecting the anthem that he has stood up for during hundreds of NBA games. 

LeBron James has played in 1,444 NBA games.

The average length of time to sing the National Anthem is 1 minute, 40 seconds.

LeBron has stood for the Anthem for ~1.67 days of his life.

And you’re going to whine about this? https://t.co/OVjggu9YZM

— Brendan Rourke (@B_RourkeSports) December 13, 2023

Despite the negative feedback from LeBron James attending his son's USC debut, the game was full of exciting moments. Sadly, the Trojans fell to LBS with a final score of 84-79. 

Bronny James is expected to ramp up his minutes as the weeks go on, and we imagine he might be back to full speed within a month. Should he be cleared for full action, his defensive capabilities will match up great with Boogie Ellis and Isaiah Collier. 

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