On Sunday afternoon, Bronny James – the son of NBA superstar LeBron James – played his first game with the USC Trojans, making his debut with the team following a scare during the offseason when Bronny collapsed during practice, going into sudden cardiac arrest. LeBron was able to be in attendance for his son’s collegiate debut, but the timing of his arrival seems to have bothered some fans.
Just before the start of the game, LeBron James was filmed walking to his courtside seats and finding his chair alongside his daughter. But he walked onto the court at the same time that the national anthem was being performed on the court.
As many noted, James did not stop, remove his hat, or acknowledge the singing of The Star Spangled Banner. Instead, he decided to just make his way to his seat.
The James gang is in the building to take in Bronny’s debut ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YEVcgH9Cha
— The Sporting News (@sportingnews) December 10, 2023
This move from James drew a lot of criticism from people on social media.
I guess getting to your court side seat is more important than waiting for National Anthem
— John (@jstead36) December 10, 2023
He can't stop for the national anthem
— Alex Skandalis (@Alex_Skandalis) December 10, 2023
Interesting time to come into the arena.
— Evan Pederson (@EvanPederson2) December 10, 2023
Take off your hat
— David HADLEY (@HADLEYDAVE0629) December 10, 2023
Wow didn’t stop for the anthem https://t.co/pqra9IpqGM
— Gus (@WashedUpTweeter) December 10, 2023
Bro. The Anthem. Stop walking. Take your hat off and let it finish. If this was China, you would never. Come on Bron, you’re better than this. https://t.co/UjssL1XI5V
— NUGE (@Nuge39) December 11, 2023
Hat on and walking to your seat during the national anthem…?
LeBron hates America .
He rooted for both teams to lose yesterday. #ArmyNavyGame2023 https://t.co/rANNz3VKwt
— Coach Donny Colombo (@leb6986) December 11, 2023
As for the game itself, Bronny James played 16 minutes in the contest where he scored four points, hitting one three-point shot and one free throw. He also had three rebounds, two assists, two steals, and one block.
However, Long Beach State spoiled Bronny’s debut, beating USC by a score of 84-79.
