Dejan Vasiljevic won't return for the final year of his contract with Adelaide after the 36ers signalled their intent to move "in a different direction" from the co-captain.
The sharpshooting guard, a two-time NBL title winner with Sydney, spent three seasons in Adelaide and was a key figure in their finals breakthrough last season.
But the 28-year-old's role was reduced this season -- they fell in overtime of game five of the finals series to the Kings -- and is now a free agent after confirmation of his release on Monday.
"DJ came to our club at a time when we needed experience and leadership, and he has been really valuable in that space," 36ers basketball boss Matt Weston.
"Last season he was asked to play a different role and had some important moments, however as we discussed with him our club's vision for NBL27 and beyond, it became apparent that we were moving in different directions."
Vasiljevic averaged 15.1 points per game 3.2 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 90 appearances for the club.
The NBL's free agency period began last Friday, with Sam McDaniel (Brisbane) and Keli Leaupepe (Sydney) extending deals at their respective clubs.
