'Phoenix's problem is the system, not players'

Mark Worthington says Josh King’s latest spray at his players is becoming “a bit of a pattern,” and that the real problem at South East Melbourne is the system.

The Phoenix are now only clear of the bottom of the ladder on percentage after a 120-110 loss to Illawarra on Wednesday night.

It was another disappointing performance from King’s side, and the coach laid down the gauntlet in his press conference, saying he has too many players focused on themselves.

The former Olympian was quick to respond on Thursday.

“I would say that this is becoming a bit of a pattern of when things aren’t going the right way for Josh King, that is just to deflect to the players and what they don’t do,” Worthington said on NBL Now, presented by CODE Sports.

“For me, it’s more about the system.”

The Phoenix have lost three straight and are conceding almost 98 points per game, an unusual sight for a team coached by the defensive-minded King.

“What they had last year was a system built around [John Brown III] – his defence and what he could bring to the table,” Worthington said.

“That also meant that the offence on the other team had to slow down.

“They built their offence off their defence, which led to deflections, layups and easy three-pointers in transition.

“What it currently looks like is you can’t keep anyone in front; you’re giving up layups, you’re giving up three-pointers.

“Down the other end, the shots are unpredictable.”

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The Phoenix put up 110 points themselves in their first Ignite Cup game, a total that would usually be more than enough to win this season, but their defensive struggles cost them again.

“Their defence needs to be sorted first and foremost, and that will lead to better offence,” Worthington said.

“They aren’t a team at the moment; they look like individuals playing on the court trying to get their own, instead of working together both offensively and defensively.”

The 4-8 Phoenix will look to return to the winner’s circle on Saturday, when they take on Melbourne United in Throwdown 35 at John Cain Arena from 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN, 9Go! and 9Now.