Trump questions – Donald Trump questioned Victor Wembanyama’s posture during the national anthem at Game 1 of the NBA Finals, but the Spurs star appeared in a different position for Game 2 in San Antonio. Trump faced follow-up questions on Air Force One, while online criticism
Donald Trump raised eyebrows over a young NBA star’s posture during the national anthem on Friday—then watched Victor Wembanyama appear with a completely different gesture two nights after Game 1.
In San Antonio ahead of Game 2 of the NBA Finals against the New York Knicks, Wembanyama was seen praying during The Star-Spangled Banner. It was a visible departure from the series opener on Wednesday, when his arms were folded across his 7ft 5in frame as the song played.
Trump tackled the subject while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One as the Finals shifted from New York’s early momentum to Texas’ home floor. Asked about the moment by Fox News’ conservative sports website, Outkick, Trump said: “I did not see that. Is that what he did?. What did he mean by that?”.
Dan Zaksheske replied that nobody asked him, and Trump answered, “I guess you’ll have to ask him.”
The exchange arrived after online criticism flared following Wednesday’s anthem. when some people suggested Wembanyama was intentionally disrespecting the United States. Comments on X reflected that argument. with one critic writing: “The dude can’t even respect the American National Anthem being sung. ” and echoing a sentiment shared by others.
Alongside the focus on Wembanyama’s arms being folded, critics also pointed to the broader Spurs lineup. Outside of Luke Kornet and Mason Plumlee, who placed their hands over their hearts, most of the Spurs positioned their arms at their sides during the performance.
That detail fueled further anger online. Matt Wallace. an online influencer. wrote on X: “Spurs players REFUSE to put their hands over their hearts for the national anthem!” He also posted: “They are making millions of dollars to play a child’s game and still feel oppressed somehow…” Wallace added: “Only 2 players covered their hearts. Take note of which ones!”.
The post came across Stephen A. Smith’s attention, and he fired back on the air. “This is patently false,” Smith wrote. “There are plenty of people who listen to the Nat’l Anthem and simply bow their heads with their hands in front of them or behind their backs and pay respects.”
Smith continued: “Holding your hand over your heart is not a requirement. The Spurs were not being disrespectful in anyway. Who is anyone to say they were just over that gesture? That is utterly ridiculous!!!”
Wembanyama has not been asked about his posture during the anthem, and Friday’s post-game availability may not offer reporters a chance to press him—when questions typically focus on competition.
Still, his lack of protest during the anthem does not mean his public concerns have been absent. Wembanyama has expressed concerns about immigration enforcement in the United States, as well as the plight of Palestinians in Gaza.
Trump, meanwhile, didn’t stay only on the controversy. Also asked about the ongoing NBA Finals, he said he currently plans to attend Game 3 in New York on Monday. “Well I’ll be going to Game 3,” Trump said on Friday aboard Air Force One.
He also reflected on how the series began. calling New York’s Game 1 win “amazing.” “I thought it was amazing. ” he said. “I think the Knicks have an amazing team. the way they play. started off slow and just got stronger and stronger. Wemby looks like he’s gonna be a great player, but they really played well.”.
Donald Trump Victor Wembanyama San Antonio Spurs New York Knicks NBA Finals national anthem gesture Stephen A. Smith Air Force One Matt Wallace Luke Kornet Mason Plumlee