Sunday’s game between South East Melbourne and Sydney at John Cain Arena was one of the most explosive fixtures to date.
From the end-to-end action to the fiery altercations, the blockbuster had it all.
A big part of that contest was the altercation between Kings coach Brian Goorjian and the Phoenix’s Owen Foxwell, in which the former said ‘f you’ three times, seemingly incensed by something the young star had said.
Since then, many, including NBL commentator Derek Rucker, Phoenix owner Romie Chaudhari and Kings co-owner and assistant coach Andrew Bogut, have weighed in on the matter.
Despite the fallout, Goorjian has stood by his actions, albeit conceding he was “disappointed” with the language he used to make his point.
“I’m the head of the dog, and we knew going in that it was going to be a physical game, and we weren’t willing to take a backward step,” Goorjian said on the Big Sports Brekky.
“We saw that they were trying to lay him on the floor every chance they could, so it’s up to me to show that I’ve got his [and all my guys] backs.
“They have to know, if they’re going to throw one, we’re not going anywhere and will throw one back.
“I know their coach [Josh King] has come out and said he [Owen Foxwell] didn’t cross the line, but from where I was, he came across and gave a spray, so I went straight back at him.
“Since then, I’ve had a lot of comments from the guys on my team, as well as ex-players, supporting me, because I feel it’s my job to have their backs.
“What I am disappointed in is the language I used. I could have used better.
“But it was a fist fight, and I have no remorse for what went down.”
It’s this mentality that has helped the Harbour City side catapult to second on the ladder, after winning 14 of the past 16 contests.
“When I came here, we wanted to make Sydney a winner [again] and after two years in the doldrums, it’s time [for us to achieve that],” Goorjian said.
“I love this group we’ve put together and all its pieces. They’ve all been selected for these moments.
“[Heading into these final few games and Finals] it’s now D-Day and time for us to step up.
“Both the Hawks and Wildcats are talented teams, so it’s important we stay focused and locked in on doing our jobs, and do everything we can to bring that championship to Sydney.”
The Kings return to the hardwood on Friday night in Wollongong, for an all-NSW clash with Illawarra from 7.30pm AEDT, live on ESPN.
