Illawarra Hawks: Goorjian dismisses rumours of move to South East Melbourne

Recent rumours have swirled that Goorjian could become South East Melbourne's next coach at the end of the 2021 season. However, speaking to the media after Saturday night's win at the WEC, he said shifting to the Phoenix "wasn't happening".

"I'm with the Hawks and have my full attention on this. And credit to Phoenix, no one from there has contacted (me). I don't know where that came from," Goorjian said.

"I'm really excited about the job I've got and really excited about the team. And that's a distraction that nobody needs. These guys don't need that."

Read more: Hawks hold on against fast-finishing Breakers to claim victory in Wollongong

Illawarra remains in the NBL's top four after claiming their third straight win on Saturday night.

In a see-sawing battle, Justin Simon's clutch steal in the dying seconds helped the Hawks record a 73-71 win at the WEC against the Breakers. The play capped a big night for Simon, who finished with a double-double, mustering 11 points and 11 rebounds.

"The whole night, the last three games really, we're down to three games in a row that we've won and we've held a team virtually in the 60s to win. And I said last time that it was keyed off Justin," Goorjian said.

"And you go back to New Zealand at Tasmania and he had that block to win the game. And tonight he had that steal to win the game. Right now, whoever we play, it's extremely difficult. I was expecting what took place tonight. When you score like we are, you're in the 70s, you're in the 60s, you're not running away from anyone. It's down to defensive plays and he's made them, and he's kept our season alive."

The Hawks will look to claim their 16^th win of the season when they return to the WEC to play Melbourne United on Tuesday night.