While the fiasco between the NFL and the presidency lingers, President Trump has again received a big lash from an NBA coach following a statement about former presidents.

San Antonio Spurs Coach, Gregg Popovich, a vocal critic of Trump described the president as a “soulless coward” after the latter falsely claimed that President Barack Obama didn’t call the families of fallen soldiers.

Speaking to The Nation Popovich said Trump’s remarks about former presidents were “so beyond pale”.

“This man in the Oval Office is a soulless coward who thinks that he can only become large by belittling others,” Popovich said, while adding that Trump is a “pathological liar” and said those who work with the president “should be ashamed.”

Popovich’s words come as Trump is already embroiled in a feud with the National Football League, which has seen its ratings drop – something the president has attributed in part to player protests, despite lack of clear evidence. Now eyes turn to the National Basketball Association, as its season is set to begin Tuesday, to see whether the conflict with Trump fuels headlines during the next several months.

Prior to Popovich’s criticism, President Trump had been embroiled in a little discord with NBA stars including Cleveland Cavaliers superstar LeBron James and Steph Curry, point guard for the NBA champion Golden State Warriors.

James called Trump a “bum” after the president tweeted that he was withdrawing Curry’s invitation to the White House.

However, given the president’s impulsive nature, Popovich’s statement could spark another week of ugly comments and tantrums from the White House.

Adegbite Adedotun