Having made a huge splash in her debut campaign, Wallam went from strength-to-strength in 2023 – scoring 719 points to be the second-highest scorer in the league behind West Coast Fever icon Jhaniele Fowler.
Wallam’s instinctive play had fans out of their seats many times throughout the season including a remarkable no-look goal as she was falling out of court against the NSW Swifts in Round Three at Ken Rosewall Arena.
The proud Noongar woman also turned in a record-breaking display in the First Nations Round triumph over the Melbourne Vixens at a sold-out Nissan Arena, scoring 71 points to break Fowler’s 2020 record for most points by an individual in an SSN game as the Firebirds posted a memorable five-point triumph.
She was also part of Australia’s successful World Cup campaign in South Africa after being named as a reserve in the Diamonds squad for the tournament.
Wallam’s respect within the team was reflected in her winning the Players’ Player of the Year award while she was also named the NAIDOC Sportsperson of the Year.
“I'm really excited to sign again for another year with the Firebirds and it's really exciting having some new talent come through,” Wallam said.
“We've got Tippah back as well and I'm looking forward to working with her.
“I feel like towards the end of the season we were building quite nicely so I’m keen for us to extend on that build and go a few games further.”
Firebirds Head Coach Bec Bulley said securing Wallam for a third season in purple was a huge boost to the club.
“Donnell is a winner, a proven big-moment player and an inspiration not just for our team and our fans but the entire netball community,” Bulley said.
“Whether it’s providing highlight reel finishes, clutch shots or using her combination of strength and skill, Donnell gives us a world-class shooting option that our Purple Family appreciates and opponents fear.
“I cannot wait to see what memories Donnell will create for us in 2024.”
