At a White House press briefing, Donald Trump suggested LeBron James might be 'maybe... a racist' while endorsing Michael Jordan as his pick for the greatest. The remark came after Fox's Peter Doocy asked about the Jordan vs. James debate amid reports James could join the Philadelphia 76ers. LeBron has not responded; the two have a history of political clashes. Trump also called Bryson DeChambeau's two-shot penalty at this month's Open 'a tough call.'
Trump Suggests LeBron James 'May Be Racist,' Names Michael Jordan His Pick
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Donald Trump drew renewed attention at a recent White House press conference when, answering a sports question, he questioned LeBron James's motives and endorsed Michael Jordan as the greatest. What began as a routine debate about basketball quickly touched on politics and personal relationships.
The exchange unfolded when Fox News correspondent Peter Doocy asked Trump to weigh in on the long-running Michael Jordan vs. LeBron James debate, noting reports that James may sign with the Philadelphia 76ers. Rather than limit his answer to on-court accomplishments, Trump contrasted his relationships with the two players.
Trump said: 'Maybe... a racist.' He suggested James 'doesn't like Trump,' added 'I only like people that like me,' and concluded, 'Michael Jordan all the way.'
LeBron James has not publicly responded to Trump's latest remarks. The two figures have clashed politically before: James supported Hillary Clinton in 2016, endorsed Joe Biden in 2020, and backed Kamala Harris in 2024. He also criticized Trump in 2017 after the president rescinded the Golden State Warriors' White House invitation following Stephen Curry's decision not to attend.
At 41, James continues to extend an already storied career. He has won four NBA championships and is preparing for what is expected to be his 24th season, further adding to one of basketball's most enduring résumés.
Other Sports Remarks
The same press conference also touched on golf when Trump called the two-shot penalty given to Bryson DeChambeau during this month's Open 'a tough call,' arguing officials were harsh after reviewing footage of the incident.
Context: The comments were part of a broader, often politically charged conversation about athletes who speak out on social and political issues. Trump's remarks reignited debate about the intersection of sports, politics, and personal loyalty.
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