Smart: Giannis charge overturned because refs 'didn't want' him out

Orlando, FL - JULY 31: Marcus Smart #36 of the Boston Celtics smiles during the game against the Milwaukee Bucks on July 31, 2020 at The HP Field House at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2020 NBAE
Garrett Ellwood / National Basketball Association / Getty

Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart didn't mince words when asked about a crucial call that went in favor of reigning NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo.

With the Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks tied at 107 apiece in the final minutes of play, Smart drew a charge on Antetokounmpo, which would've fouled him out of the game.

However, officials overturned the call upon review, and Smart wasn't pleased with their explanation.

"The excuse was I was late on the charge," Smart said postgame. "They said the replay center said that I was late and it was a block. Quite frankly, I think we all know what that was about: Giannis' sixth foul and they didn't want to get him out. Let's just call that spade a spade. And that's just what it is."

Antetokounmpo's basket counted as a result of Smart's blocking foul, and he completed the 3-point play at the free-throw line to put the Bucks up for good.

Milwaukee can clinch the Eastern Conference's top seed for the second season with another victory. Boston fell 3 1/2 games back of the Toronto Raptors for the No. 2 seed in the East.

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