PYONGYANG, North Korea — Dennis Rodman sang “Happy Birthday” to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un before leading a squad of former NBA stars in a game at a Pyongyang stadium that Rodman said is part of his “basketball diplomacy” that has been heavily criticized.

Rodman dedicated the game to his “best friend” Kim, who watched from a special seating area. Rodman has been slammed for not using his influence to help free an American missionary in poor health who is being confined for “anti-state” activity.