Vasiljevic completes sensational NBL return

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

DJ Vasiljevic has signed a one-year deal with the Adelaide 36ers.

The Adelaide 36ers have secured the sensational return of sharpshooting guard DJ Vasiljevic to the NBL, signing the two-time champion for the remainder of NBL24.

Vasiljevic won both his titles as a member of the all-conquering Sydney Kings under Chase Buford in NBL22 and NBL23, and was granted a release from his contract with the club to pursue overseas opportunities.

He linked up with former Kings teammate Xavier Cooks with the Washington Wizards’ Summer League team, before signing an Exhibit-10 training contract with the side.

He has since been waived by the Wizards and the Kings have released his contract rights, which opened up the door for his NBL return.

“I considered all the options and had a G-League deal in hand, however, I thought about the situation and wanted to play in a more competitive league,” Vasiljevic said.

“This gives me a greater chance to get noticed for the Olympics, so that’s why I decided to return.

“My focus is on helping Adelaide win and make that team for Paris.

“To come back to the NBL and play a big role for a team is the best choice I think for my career at this stage.

“Once everything happened in Washington, Adelaide was the standout option for me, and I can’t wait to put on the 36ers singlet.”

The signing of Vasiljevic means the 36ers’ roster is once again complete, following the pre-season departure of Jamaal Franklin, and the side will compete for the remainder of the season with just two imports – Jacob Wiley and Trey Kell III.

“We have got an elite player, we have got a guy who can set the tone in the NBL,” Adelaide coach CJ Bruton said.

“He can not only put points on the board, but he can also be a major piece to our team.

“I’m looking forward to have someone with that strength, toughness and determination.”

Last season Vasiljevic averaged 13.4 points per game as the Kings’ starting shooting guard.