Powell Named New Basketball Coach
Damaine Powell was recently announced as the new head coach of the Men’s Basketball Program. For the last seven years, he coached at nearby Compton Community College in a highly successful program.
"It feels so good to be here," said Powell. "I am excited to have the opportunity to lead CSUDH. I am looking forward to working with the University and athletics administration to build the Toros into a championship caliber program." Powell, who led the Tarters to State Junior College titles last season as well as in the 1997-98 campaign, takes on a program that has an overall record of 12-37 over the last two years. The Toros open their season this month on Nov. 19 at UC Irvine.
"Damaine Powell is an outstanding coach that will bring an exciting brand of basketball to CSUDH," said Athletics Director Ron Prettyman. "He is a proven winner, an educator with a master's degree in history, and a great role model. Damaine has a wealth of experience as a player and a coach, yet has the unique ability to relate, mentor and effectively motivate our student-athletes."
Powell compiled a 152-60 record in seven seasons at Compton College. He is believed to be the youngest coach ever to capture a state title when at 24, in his first year as head coach during the 1997-98 season, he led the Tarters to the State Championship with a 27-3 record. Powell led the program to a second championship just last year when they defeated American River JC, finishing 17-8 on the season.
Prior to Compton College, Powell served on the men's basketball staff at USC from 1995-97 under coaches Charles Parker and current Trojan coach Henry Bibby. During his three seasons, Powell helped the Trojans to a 39-47 overall record, including a 17-11 mark in 1996-97 when USC dropped a 90-77 decision to Illinois in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Powell played college ball at USC, serving as co-captain during his senior season.