Full Breakdown
Trump Calls LeBron James “Maybe a Racist” After 76ers Signing
7/25/2026, 10:58:45 AM
Core Event
- July 24 2026 – LeBron James, 41, signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, extending his career to a 24th NBA season.
- At a White House press conference the same day, President Donald Trump said he preferred Michael Jordan in the GOAT debate and suggested James “maybe … a racist,” adding he only liked people who liked him.
Background & Context
- James has criticized Trump’s rhetoric on race and athlete activism and has endorsed Democratic candidates in past elections.
- Their feud began in 2017 after Trump rescinded a White House invitation to the Golden State Warriors; James called the president a “bum,” and Trump later mocked James on social media.
- Michael Jordan, 63, is a six-time champion who has avoided public political endorsements; his team denied any endorsement of Trump.
Timeline
- July 24 2026 – James announces 76ers signing; Trump makes GOAT comment.
- July 24 2026 – Rep. Emilia Sykes (D-Ohio) posts on X defending James.
- July 24 2026 – Jordan’s management issues a statement denying any endorsement of Trump.
Data & Statistics
- LeBron James: four championships, four MVPs, NBA all-time leader in points and games played, $8 million contract (two-year).
- Michael Jordan: six championships, five MVPs, retired in 2003, described by Trump as a personal friend.
Official Statements & Responses
- LeBron James: No comment to the White House; earlier social-media post expressed excitement to help the 76ers win a championship.
- Rep. Emilia Sykes (D-Ohio): Called James a role model, posting, “If you come for The King, @LeBronJames, you best not miss,” and added “The president did.”
- Jordan’s management: Stated there is “absolutely no truth” to claims that Jordan endorsed Trump.
Criticism & Opposition
On-the-Ground Reports
- Fans and commentators noted Trump’s remarks shifted the conversation from basketball performance to personal politics, reigniting debate over athlete activism and presidential conduct.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Some outlets reported rumors of a Jordan endorsement of Trump; Jordan’s management later denied any such endorsement, leaving questions about how Trump’s personal friendship influences his public preference.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Michael Jordan is a guy that's a friend of mine. I play golf with him. He's a really good guy.” — President Trump
- “LeBron is, maybe he’s a racist,” — President Trump
- “If you come for The King, @LeBronJames, you best not miss,” — Rep. Emilia Sykes
What’s Next
- James will begin his 24th NBA season with the 76ers; the team’s performance and any further public exchanges between Trump and James remain to be seen.
