The Adelaide 36ers have terminated Montrezl Harrell’s contract ahead of the 2025–26 NBL season. The move comes as the 31-year-old forward faces a provisional ban linked to a doping violation during his stint with the Xinjiang Flying Tigers in China.
Harrell was tested in April 2025, with the positive result announced two months later after he had already re-signed with the 36ers. Under the ban, he is not permitted to train or play, and no timeline has been set for resolution. Adelaide cited the ongoing uncertainty and WADA confidentiality rules as reasons for ending the deal.
The veteran forward posted on X following the news, expressing frustration. “Wish I knew the truth in what actually happened! I played in Puerto Rico but hey idk rules! Like I understand fail a drug test! I get what the test showed! What I get lost is on the doping part! Because doping is (a) rule on taking a drug to increase or gain an edge in competition use! I know damn well I had zero of anything like that in me so again doping???” he wrote.
Harrell joined Adelaide for the 2024–25 season after a long NBA career, including stints with the Los Angeles Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, and Philadelphia 76ers. He averaged 20.5 points and 9.3 rebounds per game last season, earning All-NBL Second Team honors and helping the 36ers reach the play-in tournament.
The 36ers had initially viewed his return as key to their frontcourt and offensive strategy. His physicality and scoring efficiency made him one of the league’s most dominant imports.
Adelaide now faces the challenge of finding a replacement ahead of the upcoming season. The club thanked Harrell for his contributions but emphasized the need to finalize its roster as the NBL26 campaign approaches.
Harrell’s future remains uncertain as he works to resolve the doping issue.
