Jarell Martin starred with a double-double against the Hawks.
Photo by Matt King/Getty Images
The Kings entered the contest needing to win their final two games of the regular season to have any chance of sneaking past South-East Melbourne Phoenix into the fourth and final playoffs spot.
Their chances received an enormous boost when, with his side already qualified for the playoffs, Hawks coach Brian Goorjian pulled Harvey from the game just before tip-off.
Illawarra, who are undefeated when Harvey scores at least 25 points, showed plenty of tenacity in going toe-to-toe with their long-time state rivals.
However, led by double-doubles from twin big men Jarell Martin (23 points, 10 rebounds) and Xavier Cooks (19 points, 10 rebounds), the Kings joined South-East Melbourne on 18 wins.