Question: Charges vs. Blocks

[RangeGunner]

Hi,

I'm not an official, but like knowing the nuances of each rule. I was playing in a league last night and I have a question about a charge/block call.

An offensive player was driving to the basket towards a defensive player. The defensive player was stationary, but before the offensive player made contact the defensive player rotated his shoulders about 60 degrees to brace for impact. Personally, I always thought that would be a block. The official said you are allowed to protect yourself and it's a charge. This is no restricted circle.

I know this may be an obvious call, but I'm questioning it since every charge drill I have participated in was to stay square and protect your lower region.

Thanks,
R.J.