South East Melbourne have released American centre Alan Williams from the final year of his NBL contract by mutual agreement.
When fit, Williams was among the NBL's best centres across his two seasons, but a knee injury restricted him to only 15 appearances as the Phoenix finished last in the 2023/24 campaign.
The 31-year-old is expected to complete the rest of his rehabilitation at home in Arizona and appears unlikely to play elsewhere over the NBL off-season.
Williams became a respected off-court identity during his time at the Phoenix, frequently featuring as a guest commentator for ESPN and maintaining a lively social media presence.
AAP understands his release from the Phoenix was amicable.
"I just want to thank the Phoenix, the organisation and most importantly the fans for the love they showed me in my time here," Williams said in a statement.
"This was my first time in Australia and I loved it, the Phoenix played a big part in that."
Williams averaged 10.9 rebounds and 16.7 points this season, with the first of those figures the best return of any player in the league.
The American, who has 67 games of NBA experience, made 43 appearances for the Phoenix.
The Phoenix now turn their attention to free agency and bouncing back from an injury-stricken campaign under coach Mike Kelly, who is preparing for his second season in charge.
