Jackson Devine is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Deer Valley by AZPreps365.com

Jed Dunn began his coaching career over 28 years ago. The Deer Valley coach has always had the same goal: to not only build a winning culture, but build character within his players.

“He not only tries to teach you about basketball,” said Jackson Leyba, “He also tries to teach you stuff outside of the game because that type of stuff is more important to him.” 

Dunn builds lifelong relationships with all of his players.

“The main reason I coach is for the relationships,” said Dunn, who came to Deer Valley 13 years ago. “The kids I coached first are now 40 some years old and thankfully through social media. I’m able to keep in touch with them and see their families and things like that. So that’s really cool to me. That’s the most important part, is the relationships that come from coaching.”

This type of leadership and mentorship on and off the court is something Dunn takes seriously.

“Emphasizing players to work hard and act right. Every year we’ve had a character coach come in and work with our kids, so it’s important to develop those habits,” said Dunn, “They are expected to volunteer in the community 20 hours a year. They are expected to hold the door for people, sit and eat lunch with kids at school who don’t have people to eat with.” 

This has been his recipe for success at Deer Valley. In 13 seasons he has only had two losing seasons and a record of 214-118, including an 8-0 start to this season.

He has built a belief and trust with his players.

“He gives you more confidence to play freely. When your coach believes in you to take the shot and believes in you to make the shot. It gives you more confidence,” said Leyba.