Former Canberra Capitals captain Hurst has signed a one-year deal with the Bendigo Spirit for the 2018-19 season after she entered the off-season as a free agent.

Hurst is the only player to have played in all seven of Canberra's championship wins - the first of which came in 1999-2000 - and leaves the club as its reigning most valuable player award winner.

It is understood the Capitals and Hurst had been developing a coaching transition plan over the past year in a bid to assist the 35-year-old into life after playing.

But the parties involved in those discussions are no longer with the club following an administration reshuffle at the Capitals last November.

It is understood Hurst wanted to be a free agent at the end of last season and test the waters as she nears the end of her illustrious career.

The club opted not to wait on Hurst and made a move to sign star point guard Leilani Mitchell on a one-year deal as they look to snap a long finals drought.

Rumours circulated Hurst had signed a reduced contract with Canberra last season to accommodate other players with the guarantee of a healthier contract for the 2018-19 campaign before the club's management structure shifted. Hurst was contacted for comment.

Now she will link up with former Capitals teammate Abbey Wehrung and the Spirit's reigning most valuable player Nadeen Payne in Bendigo.

Three-time WNBL all star Mitchell is one of three Opals on Canberra's roster for next season with superstars Kelsey Griffin and Marianna Tolo also on the roster.

The Capitals are hunting for two imports to fill key spots on the 12-player roster, with six players already locked away before the season begins in October.

A knee injury will likely keep Tolo sidelined until mid-November - although she has no set return date - so the club is working overtime to fill the void she will leave in the opening weeks.