Los Angeles Lakers superstar LeBron James expressed outrage on social media after a Texas state trooper made physical contact with two South Carolina players during Saturday’s matchup against Texas A&M in College Station — an incident that quickly went viral and prompted official action from state authorities.

The moment unfolded as Gamecocks receiver Nyck Harbor and running back Oscar Adaway III made their way through a tunnel shortly after Harbor scored an explosive 80-yard touchdown at Kyle Field. Video footage captured a state trooper appearing to shoulder–bump the players as they walked by. Moments later, the trooper turned around, pointed at them, and appeared to sternly reprimand them.

According to ESPN, officials confirmed that the trooper was removed from his game-day assignment shortly after the incident (ESPN).

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LeBron James Slams Trooper: “Premeditated and Corny AF”

LeBron quickly took to X to condemn the trooper’s behavior:

“That A&M cop needs to be suspended! That was premeditated and corny AF! He went out his way to start some s–t. Do better man.”

The four-time NBA champion later shared the same message on his Instagram Story, accompanied by three flashing red siren emojis — signaling his frustration and disbelief.

This isn’t the first time James has publicly weighed in on issues involving athlete treatment or policing at sporting events, a topic he has spoken about repeatedly over the years (Associated Press).

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Stephen A. Smith — Despite Feud — Backs LeBron

In a surprising show of agreement, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith, who has openly feuded with LeBron in recent weeks, reposted James’ message and voiced support.

Smith wrote:

“Damn Right! Totally agree. The officer ran into two players on purpose — especially Nyck Harbor. He flexed his arms out, then turned around confrontationally. He knew exactly who it was.”

On Instagram, Smith expanded further, saying:

“It’s an automatic suspension. What’re you doing messing with a player like that for? No excuse for that behavior.”

Sports analysts from Sports Illustrated and The Athletic echoed similar concerns, calling the trooper’s conduct “unprofessional,” “escalatory,” and “dangerously unnecessary” given the crowded player tunnels that rely on strict crowd control (Sports Illustrated).

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DPS Responds, Launches Internal Review

Shortly after the video spread online, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) issued an official statement:

“The DPS Trooper involved was sent home from the game. Our Office of Inspector General (OIG) is aware of the incident and will be further looking into the matter. No additional information will be released at this time.”

CNN Sports noted that DPS rarely comments publicly on game-day security issues, making this response notable (CNN Sports).

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Wider Reaction from Athletes and Fans

The footage ignited conversations across college football and beyond. A number of athletes, coaches, and commentators weighed in online:

• Some accused the trooper of targeting players during an emotional moment.

• Others argued the trooper’s actions could have provoked an altercation in a high-pressure environment.

• Fans debated whether players should have more protected access in tunnels to avoid conflicts with law enforcement and security personnel.

Several former college football players told The Athletic that tensions in stadium tunnels are “always high” and that “officers must act with restraint” to avoid escalation (The Athletic).

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A&M Remains Unbeaten After Dramatic Win

Despite the controversy, Texas A&M secured a 31–30 comeback victory over South Carolina, improving to 10–0 and extending their undefeated season.

The narrow win keeps A&M firmly in the College Football Playoff conversation, with analysts calling it one of the most resilient performances of their season (AP News).