King of the Castle: Phoenix extend head coach

The South East Melbourne Phoenix announced on Friday that head coach Josh King has signed a new three-year contract extension, securing his future with the club until at least the end of the Hungry Jack’s NBL29 Season.

Since arriving midway through the NBL25 season, King has overseen one of the most successful periods in the club's history, compiling a 40-23 record, at a 64 per cent winning percentage, while leading the Phoenix to consecutive Playoff campaigns.

The club has finished within one win of the Championship Series in each of the past two seasons, with King also finishing runner-up in the NBL Coach of the Year voting in back-to-back years.

Phoenix CEO Simon Derrick said securing King was a significant step in the club's long-term vision.

"Josh has made an enormous impact on our club in a relatively short period of time, both through the results we're building on the court and the culture he's helped build off it," Derrick said.

"He has earned the respect and trust of our players, ownership, staff, members, partners and the wider basketball community, and we're excited to have him leading our program for years to come.

“This provides important continuity and momentum for our whole coaching group, as we continue building a club capable of sustained success.

“We are delighted that Josh, Sihem and Shirin will continue to be part of the Phoenix family for years to come.”

Phoenix General Manager of Basketball Simon Mitchell said King's influence had transformed the team's identity.

"Josh has a clear style of play, with uncompromising standards that our players have embraced. He's developed a program built on accountability and selflessness, while consistently getting the best out of his playing group," Mitchell said.

"To reach consecutive Playoff series and come within one game of the Championship Series the past two seasons shows the direction this program is heading, and we're excited about what we can continue to build together."

King's Phoenix side, which features Nathan Sobey, Angus Glover, Jordan Hunter, Tanner Krebs, Dash Daniels, Akech Aliir, Ellis Biggar, Daniel Foster, Patrick Ryan, Hunter Goodrick and newly signed import D'Shawn Schwartz, will be looking to secure their maiden championship next season.

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