President Donald Trump said NBA player LeBron James “maybe” is racist during a White House press conference, while explaining his view that Michael Jordan is basketball’s greatest player. The comment matters because it escalates a long-running public political dispute between Trump and James, one of the sport’s most prominent figures.

Trump cited his friendship with Jordan and said he preferred people who liked him, while James has repeatedly criticised Trump and backed Democratic presidential candidates. James, 41, has not responded; he recently announced a move to the Philadelphia 76ers, seeking a fifth NBA title after four championships, four MVP awards and becoming the league’s all-time leader for points and games played.