Jason Damjanovic and first-year assistant coach Travonne Edwards are reviewing video footage of their upcoming opponent in preparation for the day’s practice.

Now on his seventh season as the men’s basketball head coach, Damjanovic has taken this team to a new level along with assistant coaches Chris Malloy, Duane Garner and Jason Billie through gaining a number of achievements with his teams since starting as De Anza’s fourth head basketball coach in 2005.

As practice time nears, a number of players filter through, passing by “Coach D’s” office saying hello enthused and ready to get to work. Being part of the team consists not only of a two-hour practice and game days, but also watching films, using the weight room, and attending study hall.

“One of my major goals with these guys is to make sure their time is occupied,” Damjanovic says after giving a quick overview of practice.

With only two years to put the team together, helping individuals develop their skills and progress proves to be difficult. 

This year’s team may be the youngest in the conference, with 12 freshman and three returners, including sophomore guard Major Corpuz, and sophomore forwards Don Washington and George Kipiani.

The team’s ultimate goal is to improve throughout the season, along with winning their conference which will ensure a spot in the playoffs. 

“Once you get in the show, then it’s who’s hot,” Damjanovic says.

At mid-season, the Dons are 2-2 in conference and 10-9 overall, in one of the more difficult conferences in the state. 

“We’re looking to get better every day,” Damjanovic said. 

Halfway through the season, among the two teams with winning records so far, this fresh team is off to a promising start.