Full Breakdown
Trump Calls LeBron James “Maybe a Racist” After 76ers Signing
7/26/2026, 1:46:21 AM
Core Event
On July 24 2026, LeBron James announced a two-year, $8 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, his 24th NBA season. Hours earlier, at a White House press briefing on July 16 2026, President Donald Trump was asked about the “greatest-of-all-time” debate between James and Michael Jordan. Trump said Jordan is a personal friend and suggested James “maybe … is a racist,” adding he prefers people who like him. James has not publicly responded.
Background & Context
The exchange revives a decade-long feud. In September 2017, James called Trump a “bum” after the president cancelled a White House invitation for the Golden State Warriors. The rivalry intensified in 2018 when Trump criticized James and journalist Don Lemon after James accused the president of divisive rhetoric. James has endorsed Democratic presidential candidates in 2016, 2020 and 2024, while Trump has highlighted his friendship with Jordan.
Data & Statistics
- LeBron James (41): four NBA championships, four MVP awards, NBA’s all-time leader in points and games played.
- Michael Jordan (63): six championships, five MVP awards.
- Contract: reported as a two-year, $8 million deal (U.S. sources) and roughly £6 million in some British outlets.
Official Statements & Responses
- LeBron James: “I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team.”
- James on Trump’s remarks: “While we cannot change what comes out of that man’s mouth, we can continue to alert the people that watch us… this is not the way.”
- Jordan’s representatives (to *The Independent*): denied any endorsement of Trump, saying there is “absolutely no truth” to claims that Jordan supported the president.
- Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro (social media): proclaimed “LeBron James Day” in the Commonwealth, welcoming James to Philadelphia.
Criticism & Opposition
James framed the president’s comment as part of a broader pattern of divisive rhetoric, warning it could normalize racism. Jordan’s management refuted misinformation linking the former star to Trump’s campaigns.
Timeline
- Sept 23 2017 – James tweets “U bum” after Trump cancels the Warriors’ White House invitation.
- July 16 2026 – Trump makes the “maybe a racist” remark at a press conference.
- July 24 2026 – James announces his signing with the 76ers.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Contract value: U.S. outlets cite an $8 million two-year deal; UK reports convert it to about £6 million. No official clarification has reconciled the discrepancy.
- James’ response: As of the latest reports, James has not issued a direct reply to Trump’s specific accusation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Michael Jordan is a guy that's a friend of mine. I play golf with him. He's a really good guy.” — Donald Trump
- “I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team,” — LeBron James
- “While we cannot change what comes out of that man’s mouth, we can continue to alert the people that watch us, that listen to us that this is not the way,” — LeBron James
- “Michael Jordan's a guy that's a friend of mine. I play golf with him. He's a really good guy. And I think LeBron is -- maybe he's a racist, but maybe he doesn't like Trump. I don't know,” — Donald Trump
What’s Next
Governor Shapiro’s proclamation of “LeBron James Day” signals state-level celebration of James’ arrival. The 76ers’ upcoming season will test whether James can add a fifth championship, while the debate over Trump’s comment is likely to continue in sports and political commentary.
