King: Phoenix did the work, couldn’t convert

Usually the team that loses Game 1 is the one searching for answers. For South East Melbourne, though, the issue wasn’t effort or execution. It was simply making shots.

The Phoenix did much of what coach Josh King demands in Tuesday night’s Playoff opener in Adelaide. They just couldn’t capitalise on their opportunities as they now return home for a do-or-die Game 2.

Before the game, King would have happily accepted the numbers his team produced. South East Melbourne attempted 13 more field goals, earned four more free throws, grabbed 21 offensive rebounds and committed just six turnovers.

Those are the types of possession stats that usually lead to wins.

Instead, the Phoenix now head back to John Cain Arena needing victory on Saturday to keep their season alive and their hopes of reaching a first NBL Championship Series intact.

Adelaide’s ability to protect the ball limited some of South East Melbourne’s pressure, with the 36ers committing just nine turnovers across the night.

But the biggest difference was shooting.

The Phoenix finished at 40 per cent from the field and went just 12-of-43 from three-point range.

Reflecting after the 104-97 loss, King said he was largely pleased with how his team played, although some of the shots they took weren’t quite at the standard he would usually like.

"That's kinda what we do. We play fast, we chase after the ball and do a really good job of that, but I'd like some more to drop so you don't have so many opportunities to get offensive rebounds," King said.

"I'll have to go back and watch and see where you can be better, but I think some of our shot selection was a little bit tough just to the naked eye, and these are always hard when I'm trying to replay the game back while trying to answer questions.

"I thought some of our shot selection wasn’t as good, but we also had some go in and out that were good looks. I thought it was a pretty good, well played game.

"Bryce (Cotton) had a great game for them, they had some guys step up and make some big plays late, but I can't say we didn't follow the game plan.

"If you'd told me before the game we were going to have 21 offensive rebounds, I'd say we'd have a pretty good chance to win."

There was also a late scare for the Phoenix when reigning Damian Martin Trophy winner John Brown III appeared to hurt himself after another relentless performance on the glass that included five offensive rebounds.

King didn’t have an update immediately after the game, but said he would be surprised if the injury proved to be anything serious.

"I haven’t asked our medical staff yet and I'm not sure if it was frustration or what, but I don't know and we'll see," King said.

"The way I looked at it and I have no idea, I'd tell you if I knew, but I hope it was just out of frustration and the game was kinda over now and I think he slipped on the floor so I hope he's ok.

"We obviously need him as a All-First Team player, but I can't tell you right now although if he's able to play, I'm sure he's going to play and hopefully he's OK."