LeBron James stirred controversy on Christmas Day when his actions during the national anthem drew criticism, reigniting debate about respect for patriotic traditions and whether the Lakers star snubbed the United States before tipoff.
James and the Los Angeles Lakers were routed 119-96 by the Houston Rockets, yet the score faded behind pregame optics when cameras showed him taking practice golf swings as the anthem played inside the arena.
ESPN amplified the moment by sharing the clip on social media, adding the caption, “Bron working on his golf swing?”
The post quickly circulated, fueling arguments about media judgment and perceived indifference toward the flag before the network’s decision drew added scrutiny given prior criticism of its anthem coverage.
James has previously avoided rigid anthem routines, but the golf swing struck a different chord. Detractors argued it crossed from casual nonconformity into visible disregard on a nationally spotlighted holiday.
With his career nearing its later stages, James has embraced golf openly. He recently discussed following YouTube golf content, leaning into a pastime many associate with retired or transitioning athletes.
That hobby has now been folded into criticism of his focus. After the loss to Houston, Lakers coach JJ Redick questioned effort, prompting former teammate Dwyane Wade to suggest James was distracted by time on his golf simulator.
Lakers breeze past Kings
The Lakers entered December 28 after three straight losses, standing 19-10 in the NBA’s Western Conference, but they halted the slide with a convincing win over the Sacramento Kings, restoring momentum and balance.
Los Angeles beat Sacramento 125-101 in the all-California clash behind 34 points from Luka Doncic, including 24 in the first half, as the Lakers improved to 20-10, while the Kings struggled on the second night of a back-to-back.
“The product that we were putting out there just wasn’t there,” Kings coach Doug Christie said. “That obviously starts with me, always. We came in and we weren’t grabbing hold and controlling.
“The level of physicality wasn’t to the level that we draw the line in the sand and say this is what it’s going to be.” Sacramento shot 28 percent from three and committed 19 turnovers.
“Our sense of urgency, the ability to have multiple efforts, it just wasn’t at the level that it’s been at period. We have to make sure that we bounce back versus the Clippers.”
The Kings take on the Los Angeles Clippers on December 30 from 23:00 ET/20:00 PT whilst the Lakers are next in action against the Detroit Pistons on that same Tuesday from 22:30 ET/19:30 PT.
Fans can catch the games on NBA League Pass, as well as streaming options supplied via FuboTV. The Lakers are on NBC/Peacock and the Kings will take to the court live on NBC Sports California as well as FanDuel Sports Network SoCal.
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