A high school graduate of Aberdeen High School in Aberdeen, Mississippi, Anthony McDonald competed on the JUCO level as a guard, first for the Indians at Itawamba Community College in the 2011-12 season and then for the Trojans in the 2012-13. During his tenure as a player, MDCC was a runner-up in the MACCC. 

He continued his playing career at Mississippi Valley State University and upon graduation continued his graduate studies at North Carolina Central University where he was named Second Team All-MEAC his senior season in 2013-14. and the team was crowned MEAC Champions. After his collegiate career, Coach McDonald played professionally overseas in Spain, German, Chile and the Dominican Republic. After retiring he became a skills trainer and recreational youth coach.