Former Guard Jason Williams Says Players Must Stand Still for Anthem

LeBron James' movements during the national anthem have drawn attention this season, and now a former NBA guard is weighing in.

Jason Williams, a point guard who played 12 seasons with the Grizzlies, Kings, Heat and Magic, discussed the matter on the most recent episode of Barstool Sports' "Hoopin' N Hollerin'" podcast, which he co-hosts with Adam Ferrone. Williams said players are required to remain still when the anthem plays. "I think motherf, ers should just stand the f, still during the national anthem. That's just my opinion," Williams told Ferrone. He added that he does not personally care what James does but reiterated his preference for stillness, saying, "You're supposed to stand still!" Williams also said players are expected to dress alike and that James dresses differently, adding, "Guaranteed he got fined because you're all supposed to be dressed the same."

The NBA has not issued any fines to James for his mid-anthem warm-ups. Williams' comments on the podcast also followed remarks about the matter from President Donald Trump. NBA legend and "Inside the NBA" co-host Charles Barkley has also criticized James for not standing still during the anthem. Williams' podcast episode was the most recent one, and he addressed the question when Ferrone asked whether he had thoughts on the issue.

James plays for the Philadelphia 76ers. The NBA's rules on anthem conduct were the subject of Williams' comments, and he said the rules applied during his playing career. He also said the rules could have changed since then. The league has not fined James for his conduct during the anthem.