‘Zero respect for the country that gave him the opportunity to be a basketball star,’ one user wrote. ‘Zero respect for the country that allowed him to become a billionaire.

‘Zero respect for the men and women who defend our country so he can live his life. Shameful.’

James walked in and sat down during ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ for son Bronny’s USC debut

Evans pushed back on the criticism, defending James’ choice to enter during the national anthem.

LeBron James casually walks into the basketball arena while the National Anthem is playing and takes a seat.

Zero respect for the country that gave him the opportunity to be a basketball star.

Zero respect for the country that allowed him to become a billionaire.

Zero respect… pic.twitter.com/NaTmdeOabx

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) December 13, 2023

‘As the reporter who took this video, this is gross and completely mischaracterizes the situation,’ Evans wrote.

‘LeBron has done this for YEARS in Bronny’s time at Sierra Canyon. It’s objectively the best time to walk in so he doesn’t cause a massive stir. Stop it.’

However, Evans’ response led to more comments from users who disagreed with the gesture.

‘I can see the walking in during this part,’ one user commented. ‘The sitting down though is pretty disrespectful. Can’t see it any other way tbh.’

‘So what you are actually saying is that Lebron has been consistently disrespectful,’ another wrote. ‘It is OK to come in during the National Anthem. You simply remove your hat and the remain standing when you get to your seat, not plop yourself down.’

LeBron did not remain seated for long as was frequently off his seat during Bronny’s collegiate debut. Bronny, who committed to USC earlier this year, missed the first eight games of the season after suffering a cardiac arrest in July.

‘Can’t even tell y’all how EMOTIONAL today was for me!’ James wrote on Instagram following the game. ‘I’m literally drained and all I can say is @bronny you’re simply INCREDIBLE!!

‘Damn the wins and loses that will occur. You’ve already won the ultimate goal/championship and that’s LIFE!!! Proud of you kid and today you’ve given me more life! Thank you and I love you’

Bronny tallied four points, three rebounds and two assists as USC fell, 84-79, against Long Beach State.

The Trojans currently lead the Pac 12 with a 5-4 record and will face Auburn on December 17.