It is with the utmost sadness that the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame and Basketball Manitoba announce the passing of honoured member Don McLean. Don was one of Manitoba basketball's first truly dominant big men and experienced great success at every level he played.
From the late 1950s to the early 1970s, Don was a standout player in Winnipeg's Junior and Senior Men's Basketball Leagues. As a member of the IPAC Junior "Buffaloes" from 1959 to 1962 in the then-powerful junior league, Don led his team to two Provincial Championships, a Manitoba-Saskatchewan title, and two Western Canadian Finals. A prolific scorer, he was the league scoring champion in 1961 and 1962 and was named a League All-Star both years.
Don continued his success at the senior level as a member of the IPAC Senior "Buffaloes" and later the Madison "Chimneys" in the Senior "A" League. He was named to the All-Star Team four times and was recognized as the league MVP in 1965. In 1965 and 1966, Don was added to the St. Andrews "Super Saints" roster to compete in the Canadian Men's Senior Championships.
Don was a true gentleman and a great supporter of the Manitoba Basketball Hall of Fame, even after relocating to Alberta. He will be deeply missed. Our most sincere sympathies are extended to his wife, Shirley, his entire family, and his many friends.
Source: https://www.mbhof.com/2025/03/in-memory-of-don-mclean.html