Trump says of LeBron James: ‘Maybe he’s a racist’

DON AND KING. Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) and guard Luka Doncic (77) react after a play during the first quarter against the LA Clippers at Crypto.com Arena. Jason Parkhurst/Imagn Images/Reuters 'I only like people that like me,' says US President Donald Trump as he takes a jab at NBA star LeBron James, who will play a record-extending 24th season with the 76ers US President Donald Trump, asked to weigh in on the basketball careers of Michael Jordan and LeBron James, said Friday, July 24, that James might be a racist. In a White House press conference, Fox News’ Peter Doocy mentioned the Friday news that James intends to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers, then asked the president whether Jordan or James is the “best ever.” Trump replied, “Michael Jordan is a guy that’s a friend of mine. I play golf with him. He’s a really good guy. I think LeBron is — maybe he’s a racist, but maybe he doesn’t like Trump. I don’t know. I only like people that like me, so I would say Michael Jordan all the way.” LeBron James announced Friday he's joining the Sixers for the 2026-27 season, which will be his 24th as a pro."Where do you stand on LeBron vs. Michael Jordan as the best ever?" A reporter asked President Trump."Well, Michael Jordan's a guy that's a friend of mine. Play golf… pic.twitter.com/B9Tw9i4v50— CBS News (@CBSNews) July 24, 2026 James endorsed the three candidates that ran against Trump in the past three presidential elections: Hillary Clinton in 2016, Joe Biden in 2020 and Kamala Harris in 2024. James also criticized Trump following the president’s withdrawal of the Warriors’ invitation to the White House in 2017, after Golden State star Stephen Curry stated that he would have declined the visit. Jordan, 63, won six NBA titles for the Chicago Bulls in the 1990s and was a five-time league MVP. James, 41, owns four NBA championship rings and has been selected MVP four times during his career with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers. He is the NBA’s all-time leader in points and games played. – Rappler.com How does this make you feel? Loading