Stephen A Smith explains why Trump called LeBron James a ‘disgrace’
WASHINGTON, DC: ESPN host Stephen A Smith believes President Donald Trump’s criticism of LeBron James over his behavior during the national anthem may be an attempt to gain a political advantage ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
Smith shared his interpretation after Trump called the Los Angeles Lakers star a “disgrace” during a rally, criticizing him for shooting around during the national anthem. While Smith acknowledged that James’ actions could upset some Americans, he argued that the president’s response was excessive given the basketball star’s professional record.
Stephen A Smith links Trump’s remarks to midterm elections
Smith said he believed Trump was using the controversy to appeal to voters as the midterm elections approach. Speaking on YouTube, the sports commentator suggested that sports can reach a broad range of demographic groups, making athletes and sporting events useful platforms for political messaging.
“I think that he's wrong. I think he's using it to be politically expedient with the midterms coming up,” Smith said.
He added that sporting events bring together people from different backgrounds and can provide politicians with an opportunity to communicate with a wide audience.
Smith suggested that Trump’s comments about James could help the president and his party politically, although he did not present evidence establishing the president’s motive.
Stephen A Smith says LeBron James did not deserve the criticism
Although Smith acknowledged the sensitivity surrounding the national anthem in the United States, he said Trump’s description of James as a “disgrace” was unwarranted.
Smith said James had been an “incredible role model” and had maintained a strong professional reputation throughout his career.
“I'm not saying that it was right for LeBron James during the national anthem to be doing that because we know how sensitive people are in this country, particularly in this day and time when it comes to our national anthem,” Smith said.
While listening to our National Anthem, LeBron James disrespects our Country! I said right from the beginning that he’s no good, a TOTAL DISGRACE. LeBron James should apologize to all of those Great American Warriors and Heroes who died for the American Flag, and all that our Country stands for! President DONALD J. TRUMP ( TS: Oct 22 2026, 12:22 PM ET )
— Commentary Donald J. Trump Truth Social Posts On X (@TrumpTruthOnX) October 22, 2026
However, he argued that the criticism should be considered in the context of James’ broader conduct as a professional athlete rather than used to dismiss his record.
Trump’s remarks have added another chapter to his public disagreements with James, with Smith interpreting the latest comments through the lens of the approaching midterm elections.
Smith argued that political messaging around sports can shift attention away from competition and toward wider cultural debates. The controversy has also renewed discussion about the relationship between athletes, national anthem traditions and political expression.
