Milwaukee Bucks coach Doc Rivers said he had to defend his player as he reacted to the $25,000 fine he received from the NBA on Sunday for criticizing a crucial officiating call in a 115-114 loss at Charlotte a day earlier.

Rivers’ comments took place during the post-game press conference following the team’s 115-114 loss to the Charlotte Hornets.

Hornets guard LaMelo Ball appeared to trip over his own feet in the game's closing seconds; a fall was called on Antetokounmpo, and Ball's ensuing pair of free throws made the difference.