The former Black Eyed Peas singer performed a slower, jazzier version of the Star-Spangled Banner before the game at Staples Center.
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"I've always been honored and proud to perform the national anthem and last night I wanted to try something special for the NBA. I'm a risk taker artistically, but clearly this rendition didn't strike the intended tone. I love this country and honestly tried my best."
But some called it one of the worst-ever performances of the anthem, debating where it stood compared to widely-panned versions in the past by Olympic star Carl Lewis and comedienne Roseanne Barr.
Others tweeted a picture of Golden State Warriors star Klay Thompson with his ear bleeding.
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And many noted the reaction of some of the players and audience members at Staples as they listened, ranging from looking dumbfounded to giggling.
Here's a selection of just a few of the comments:
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