WNBA commentator Rebecca Lobo forced into bizarre on-air U-turn after praising Donald Trump

WNBA legend and ESPN commentator Rebecca Lobo issued a bizarre apology on air for calling America 'great' during the Las Vegas Aces' win over the Indiana Fever.

Lobo, who was named a WNBA All-Star back in 1999, was debating a foul call in Sunday's game with play-by-play announcer Pam Ward when she used a term vaguely similar to Donald Trump's MAGA catchphrase.

'So they disagree with you?' Ward asked her colleague about the decision made by officials on court.

'They do, and I disagree with them. And that's fine,' Lobo responded before adding, 'that's what makes America great, right Pam Ward?'

After seemingly being left uncomfortable with her choice of wording, Ward stayed silent before Lobo backtracked on the comment in strange fashion.

'I should rephrase that,' the former New York Liberty star said.

Ward then replied: 'Yeah, I did think differences of opinion are perfectly fine.'

'Yes, that's a better way to say it. Sorry about that,' Lobo added.

Fans quickly took to social media to slam Lobo, Ward and ESPN over the awkward moment, which many felt was unnecessary.

'Clearly not political. Just a general statement,' one user posted on X.

'Disgraceful! There is too long a pause after Rebecca said it. Someone in the booth told her rephrase it. There is nothing wrong with what she said, get over yourself woke ESPN. Not everything is political,' wrote another.

A third put: 'Imagine being offended about saying America is great. F***in losers'.

While another simply commented: 'Pathetic moment.'

Lobo has spent over two decades as a commentator for ESPN after joining the network back in 2004, a year after she retired from basketball.

As well as playing for the Liberty, Houston Comets, Springfield Spirit and the Connecticut Sun, the iconic center also won a gold medal at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta with Team USA.