Keifer Sykes dropped 29 points for the Phoenix.
Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images
In just the franchise s second season, the Phoenix are in the box seat to snap up the last playoff spot on offer after retaining fourth place on a congested ladder with one game to play.
Import Sykes proved the difference on Saturday with 29 points - including 21 in the first half - along with seven rebounds and five assists to help the Phoenix overcome a Breakers fourth-quarter fightback and snap a two-game losing streak.
The Phoenix moved to a 19-16 season tally, ahead of fifth-placed Sydney Kings (18-17) and No.6-ranked Brisbane Bullets (17-17), who were playing each other on Saturday night.
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.
After spoiling the New Zealand Breakers official homecoming in Auckland, the Brisbane Bullets now have their sights set on gatecrashing the NBL finals party.