United States President Donald Trump indicated LeBron James could be a racist during remarks on whether the basketball star ranks as the greatest player of all time.

James, 41, revealed on Friday plans to extend his standout career by joining the Philadelphia 76ers.

Pressed on the signing during a White House press briefing, Trump outlined his view that Michael Jordan stands as the superior athlete.

Jordan, 63, captured six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls during the 1990s along with five league MVP awards.

Addressing the question of the all-time best between Jordan and James, Trump stated: "Michael Jordan is a guy that's a friend of mine. I play golf with him. He's a really good guy.

"I think LeBron is, maybe he's a racist, but maybe he doesn't like Trump. I don't know. I only like people that like me, so I would say Michael Jordan all the way."

James has yet to reply to the remarks and has frequently voiced opposition to Trump across his presidencies while backing Democratic nominees Hillary Clinton, Joe Biden and Kamala Harris in their campaigns against him.

Back in 2017 he called Trump "a bum" amid a dispute concerning White House visits for championship NBA squads.

James secured four NBA titles across stints with the Miami Heat (twice), Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Lakers.

He earned league MVP honors four times and holds the NBA records for career points and games played.

James aims to claim a fifth championship with the 76ers after confirming his move to Philadelphia on Friday.

The roster now features James alongside All-Stars Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Jaylen Brown.

"I believe I can help make the Philadelphia 76ers a championship team," James stated in an extended social media message.