Dene Macdonald, a native of Wollongong, NSW, began his basketball journey as a junior in the Illawarra basketball program and grew to become a key figure for the Illawarra Hawks. Renowned for his defensive tenacity and reliable three-point shooting, Macdonald was often tasked with guarding the opposition's top frontcourt players, showcasing his versatility and dedication on the court. 

Making his NBL debut with the Hawks at just 17 years old, Macdonald quickly established himself as a dependable player. Over his career, he played 194 games for the Hawks, placing him 10th on the club’s all-time games played list as of August 2024—a testament to his longevity and consistent contributions to the team. 

One of the standout moments of Macdonald's career occurred on July 27, 1991, when he was part of the highest-scoring game in NBL history. In this extraordinary contest, the Hawks lost to the Melbourne Tigers 186-158. Macdonald contributed 13 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists, playing a significant role in a game that saw the Hawks shoot an incredible 76% from the field, the highest shooting percentage ever recorded by a team in a losing effort. 

Throughout his career, Dene Macdonald was known for his hard work, dedication, and steady presence on the court. As a local talent who made a significant impact on his hometown team, his legacy remains an important part of Illawarra basketball history.