Brisbane Bullets snap up Rockingham Flames’ Devondrick Walker for 2023 NBL season

The Brisbane Bullets have snatched up NBL1 West’s MVP and grand final MVP for the 2022-23 NBL season.

Devondrick Walker was a standout in the NBL1 season and was instrumental in the Rockingham Flames’ first grand final win for its men’s side.

The 30-year-old was also selected in the All Star Five, a team comprising NBL1 West’s five best players each year.

Walker was the leading scorer in the league, averaging 27 points along with 5.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.9 steals.

Walker has played in the NBL previously, most recently with the South East Melbourne Phoenix in the 2019-20 season. He had signed with the Perth Wildcats for the 2017-8 season but a foot injury restricted him from playing.

The 196cm player, originally from Garland, Texas, has also competed in Italy, France, New Zealand and Latvia, as well as in the NBA Summer League for the Utah Jazz (2017) and Philadelphia 76ers (2018).

Bullets’ general manager of basketball Sam Mackinnon said Walker’s past NBL experience was “a key reason” for adding him to Brisbane’s roster.

“He understands the league and his shooting will help space the floor for us to be more effective,” he said.

Coach James Duncan said he was eager to have Walker join the squad.

“Devondrick’s length, athleticism and ability to stretch the floor are key attributes that will help our squad,” he said.

Walker is fresh off the back of the Rockingham Flames’ stellar season in NBL1 West and said he was excited by the new opportunity.

“I’m . . . looking forward to getting a fresh start with a hungry group of guys,” Walker said.

“Bullets fans can expect a positive mindset, winning mentality and constant desire to get better.”