NBA says refs missed 10 calls late in Hornets-Timberwolves

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Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) talks with referee Eric Dalen (37) after not receiving a foul call off a shot during the final seconds of an NBA basketball game against the Charlotte Hornets, Monday, Jan. 22, 2024, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

NEW YORK — The NBA announced Tuesday there were 10 incorrectly officiated calls in the last 2 minutes of the Charlotte Hornets’ comeback win over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Timberwolves lost 128-125 to the Hornets despite a franchise-record 62 points by Karl-Anthony Towns.

The Last Two Minute Report, issued by the league for games at or within three-point margins in the final 2 minutes of fourth quarters and overtimes, revealed that six mistakes benefited the Hornets and three of them went for the Timberwolves.

One was simply a foul called on the wrong Charlotte player.

Minnesota Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) loses control of the ball while attempting a shot as Charlotte Hornets forward Leaky Black, left, and forward P.J. Washington defend during the second half of an NBA basketball game, Monday, Jan. 22, 2024, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

The league said the officials missed two fouls on the Hornets as they defended Towns on his drive to the basket in the closing seconds with Minnesota trailing by one point.

Terry Rozier should have been called for reaching in during the dribble, and Leaky Black should have been whistled for a shooting foul.