LeBron James Replies to President Trump's Call for Apology Over Anthem Warm-up

LeBron James responded Thursday to President Donald Trump's social-media post demanding an apology for James' apparent warm-up during the national anthem before the Philadelphia 76ers' season opener against the New York Knicks.

"Must've been a slow news day at the office," James said to reporters after the Sixers defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 114-106 in their home debut. James, who made his Sixers debut on Tuesday in New York, was seen miming golf swings and jump shots while the anthem played at Madison Square Garden, a moment that preceded the Sixers' 106-100 victory over the Knicks. President Trump later labeled James a "total disgrace" who "disrespects our country" in a post and reiterated the criticism during a campaign rally in Sioux City, Iowa. Sixers head coach Nick Nurse said the president's remarks were just another instance of outside noise, adding that his priority remains getting players to practice, the film room and the game floor. "All I really care about is getting them to the practice floor, getting them in the film room, getting them to the game floor, and the focus that they've had and the intent and all the stuff they've had has been excellent," Nurse said. James has posted averages of 15.5 points and 9.5 rebounds in his first two games with Philadelphia as the team aims for a 3-0 start with Saturday's matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks.