LeBron James says Trump has emboldened racists in the U.S.

"The guy in control has given people and racism ... an opportunity to be out and outspoken without fear," James, a frequent Trump critic, told reporters prior to the Cavaliers' game against the Golden State Warriors on the U.S. holiday honoring civil rights activist Martin Luther King. "And that's the fearful thing for us because it's with you and it's around every day but he's allowed people to come out and just feel confident about doing negative things." Trump has come under fire for reportedly calling some African nations "shithole countries" during a White House meeting with lawmakers discussing U.S. immigration policy. Trump has denied using such derogatory language, which has led him to be widely condemned by many African leaders and international rights organizations.