Vasiljevic signs on for NBL24 campaign

Adelaide 36ers are thrilled to announce the signing of Dejan Vasiljevic for the remainder of the NBL24 season.

The two-time NBL champion signed an Exhibit 10 contract with NBA franchise Washington Wizards in September but joins the 36ers after being put on waivers.

Vasiljevic said the decision to join the 36ers was an opportunity to showcase his talent back in Australia rather than play for the Wizards’ G-League franchise Capital City Go-Go.

“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.

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“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.”

Adelaide 36ers head coach CJ Bruton is thrilled with the addition of Vasiljevic to his squad and said the guard will give his side a boost at both ends of the court.

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

The 191cm guard opted out of his three-year NBL contract in June to chase his NBA dream and starred for the Wizards at the 2023 NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, which earnt the 26-year-old the Exhibit 10 deal.

Vasiljevic, who will be sponsored by Workplace Law this season, has won the past two NBL championships and averaged 13.4 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.8 assists per night across 36 games in NBL23.

“I bring the energy, the intensity at both ends of the floor and most importantly, I’m here to win,” Vasiljevic said.

Keanu Rasmussen will move back to a Development Player spot to make way for Vasiljevic, who is expected to make his Adelaide 36ers debut against South East Melbourne Phoenix on Thursday night at the Entertainment Centre.