King all in on Phoenix rise

Since arriving at South East Melbourne, Josh King has guided the Phoenix to an impressive 37-19 record.

That includes leading the Heartland club to their first-ever 20-win Hungry Jack’s NBL season, as they currently sit in first spot on the ladder with a 21-9 record.

Now the Finals fast approaching, coach King has explained how he hopes to build his club into a constant championship threat.

"The chance to move to Melbourne to coach basketball and live in this part of the world is amazing," King told basketball.com.au.

"The league is really fun and is growing [all the time]. I've just enjoyed being at South East Melbourne and helping grow our club. Hopefully we can continue to do that in the future."

King currently has one year left on his deal, but CODE Sports reported last month that the club is working to extend that, with the 40-year-old one of the main contenders for this season’s Coach of the Year award.

"Obviously, there's several other coaches in this league that are worthy of getting Coach of the Year,” he said.

“For me, it just means that I'm coaching a team that must be doing pretty well to be able to be in that conversation, because you don't get to be up for that award if you're coaching a team that's not performing at the level."

The Phoenix host the Kings from 2.30pm AEDT on Sunday, live on ESPN and Channel 10.

Read the full story here >> 'I love Melbourne': Phoenix King keen to stay long term