After 21 years coaching at Linden, Phil Colicchio has returned to his alma mater at Elizabeth.

Coach Colicchio won 450 games, six group titles and had the court named after him but says he was unhappy with Linden's athletic administration.

The 52-year-old took the job at Elizabeth partly because he played there in 1984 when he won the county title.

Winning has been inconsistent, but players on the team think the coaching veteran can bring it back.

"I feel more confident," says Clarence Wilkins, Elizabeth senior guard. "He brings hope back to Elizabeth."

Colicchio will also be reunited with his former coach-- Elizabeth Athletic Director Ben Candelino.

The high school basketball season tips off on Friday.