Kings release rights to Vasiljevic for NBL24 season

“While DJ played a role in the club’s recent success, it became clear that to make such a significant change to our roster by having him return at the expense of one of our current rostered players was not in our best interests."

The Sydney Kings on Tuesday have announced the release of their rights to Dejan Vasiljevic for the NBL24 season.

At the conclusion of the NBL23 season, Dejan Vasiljevic made known his desire to explore opportunities in Europe and the NBA.

As a club that prides itself on being a pathway for players to achieve their goals, the Sydney Kings supported this decision, and to its own disadvantage, amended the out clauses to allow for Vasiljevic's release.

Critically this amendment included our club retaining the right of first refusal on Vasiljevic in the NBL – something that was never contemplated for NBL24 given his aspirations and commitment to chase his dream.

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Vasiljevic subsequently signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Washington Wizards, before being waived prior to NBA training camp; there was a clear expectation he would spend this season with their G-League affiliate the Capital City Go-Go.

Last week, the Sydney Kings were surprised to receive a request from Vasiljevic’s management to return to the NBL.

The Sydney Kings undertook a review process into whether to exercise the right of first refusal – and have chosen not to exercise this right, and allow for Vasiljevic’s release.

“While DJ played a role in the club’s recent success, it became clear that to make such a significant change to our roster by having him return at the expense of one of our current rostered players was not in our best interests," said CEO Chris Pongrass, who is confident in the club's decision.

"We have the utmost confidence in the team we have built and the success we will have with our contracted players.

“We are disappointed with how this has been handled and another NBL team’s role in this process.

"We originally amended the contract in good faith and completed our roster with the understanding that DJ would play internationally this season.

"While there is no perfect system, this circumstance highlights the inequity NBL clubs have in terms of protecting their interests as opposed to other leagues in the world.”