JUST months after departing the Sydney Kings in pursuit of international opportunities, guard Dejan Vasiljevic has taken the next step in that jouney.
He has signed an Exhibit 10 contract with the Washington Wizards ahead of the upcoming 2023/24 NBA season, having impressed in the recently wrapped Summer League where he showcased his ability to score the ball in a big way.
His standout performance came against the Oklahoma City Thunder, where the 26-year-old exploded off the bench in a remarkable showing. He dropped 14 points in just 11 minutes of court time, lighting it up from behind the arc and showing the Wizards that he can take it up to some of the best in the competition if given the opportunity.
Vasiljevic has been a staple of the Kings’ success over the past couple of years, playing a crucial role in the team’s two championships in as many seasons. He was a particularly vital contributor in the first title, exploding for some big performances against the Tasmania JackJumpers and establishing himself as one of the best big game players in the league.
He announced his desire to explore opportunities elsewhere following the conclusion of the 2022/23 NBL season, and now could be heading into the biggest basketball league in the world.
An Exhibit 10 contract is a one-year, non-guaranteed minimum salary contract that allows Vasiljevic to take part in Washington’s pre-season training camp.
Although it does not guarantee him a spot on the Wizards’ list this season, it allows the guard to potentially impress in pre-season camp, and if desired, the team can convert him to a two-way contract ahead of the season’s start date.
It also opens up the door for Vasiljevic to possibly join the Wizards’ G-League affiliate, the Capital City Go-Go. The G-League has become another common pathway to the NBA, and could see him continue his path to the NBA, albeit via a slight detour.
If he earns a spot on Washington’s roster in the coming weeks, Vasiljevic will be playing alongside former Kings teammate Xavier Cooks, who signed a two-year deal with the Wizards last year and has been impressing when given the playing time.
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