2 minSports
Jason Williams says LeBron James should stand still during anthem
Former NBA guard Jason Williams criticized LeBron James for swaying and warming up during the national anthem, saying players should stand still as the league's rules require.
Former NBA point guard Jason Williams has criticized Philadelphia 76ers star LeBron James for swaying and appearing to practice his golf swing during the national anthem, saying players should simply stand still. The remarks, made on the podcast Hoopin’ N Hollerin’, add to a debate over James's pre-game habits that has drawn attention throughout the season, including from President Donald Trump.
Williams, who played 12 seasons in the league with the Grizzlies, Kings, Heat and Magic, co-hosts the Bartsool Sports podcast with Adam Ferrone. Asked for his view on the topic during a recent episode, he did not hold back. «I think motherf---ers should just stand the f--- still during the national anthem,» Williams said. «That’s just my opinion.»
Williams said he did not personally care what James was doing, but argued that players are expected to remain still during the anthem and to dress alike. He suggested James was likely fined for standing out in his attire and movement. «You’re supposed to stand still!» he said. «Look, they’re all dressed the same. He’s dressed different. Guaranteed he got fined because you’re all supposed to be dressed the same. When I played, that was the rules. They could’ve changed the s--- now, but I guarantee he got fined.»
The report notes that the NBA has not levied any fines against James for his mid-anthem warm-ups. Williams is not the only public figure to criticize the habit. NBA legend and Inside the NBA co-host Charles Barkley has also said James should not move during the anthem, and the president has weighed in on the issue earlier this season.
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