Michael Jordan made his feelings clear on Donald Trump's decision to 'ban' Steph Curry from the White House

The President of the United States of America demonstrated his thin skin in his first term, uninviting one of the top players in the NBA from visiting the White House.

Donald Trump's first visit from the NBA champions was due to be the Golden State Warriors in 2017.

The Warriors gained revenge over the Cleveland Cavaliers to win the NBA Finals in five in 2016-17, a feat they would achieve again the following season.

But when Steph Curry, the Warriors point guard and NBA all-timer, said he didn't want to visit the White House, the hair-trigger constitution of the President couldn't bear it.

"Going to the White House is considered a great honor for a championship team. Stephen Curry is hesitating, therefore invitation is withdrawn!" tweeted Trump.

Curry, who said the Warriors' refusal to visit was a stand against Trump's words and deeds in his first months in office, was presumably gutted by the President's statement.

Athletes acting based on their beliefs is always difficult for politicians to stomach. Trump, who is a terrific golfer, has encountered plenty in his premiership.

NBA icon Michael Jordan responded to Trump's decision by pointing out the importance of sportspeople being able to use their platforms.

"One of the fundamental rights this country is founded on was freedom of speech, and we have a long tradition of nonviolent, peaceful protest," Jordan told the Charlotte Observer in 2017.

"Those who exercise the right to peacefully express themselves should not be demonized or ostracized.

"At a time of increasing divisiveness and hate in this country, we should be looking for ways to work together and support each other and not create more division.

"I support Commissioner Adam Silver, the NBA, its players and all those who wish to exercise their right to free speech."

Steph Curry (Image: Getty)

Curry was already a double league MVP and two-time NBA champion, and has since won the NBA Finals twice more.

The 37-year-old is now the highest-paid player in the NBA and is regarded as one of basketball's all-time great point guards.

Jordan later said that Curry, who sees him as the greatest of all time, wasn't yet a Hall of Fame-level player.