Phil Colicchio, a celebrated figure in New Jersey high school basketball, reached a significant milestone by earning his 600th career win on March 2, 2024. His Elizabeth High School team triumphed over Chester (PA) with a score of 66-50 during the Battle by the Bay tournament in Atlantic City. This victory positions Colicchio as the 26th boys coach in the state’s history to achieve such a remarkable feat.
Colicchio’s coaching legacy is already impressive, having led teams to eight state championships—six at Linden High School and two at Elizabeth. His recent achievement comes just one week after another Union County coach, Art Cattano of New Providence, also reached the 600-win mark. Cattano secured his milestone with a 51-44 victory against Rahway on February 27, 2024.
Colicchio’s Coaching Journey
Now in his eighth season at Elizabeth, Colicchio has accumulated an average of just over 20 victories per season throughout his 30-year coaching career. Notably, he has consistently demonstrated the ability to adapt his coaching strategies to his players’ abilities. Even when faced with challenges such as having younger or smaller teams, Colicchio instilled a strong defensive discipline that often led to unexpected victories.
When his teams have had notable scoring talent, they have excelled in state championships. Colicchio’s inaugural Group 4 championship came during his third season at Linden in 1999-2000, when the Tigers, led by Jamaal Tate and Dan Delvalle, defeated Bridgewater-Raritan. Over the next 17 years, Linden would secure five more titles before Colicchio transitioned to Elizabeth in December 2018. His tenure at Elizabeth has already yielded two Group 4 titles, with the most recent championships in 2022 and 2024.
The 2024 team, which finished the season with a record of 23-5, featured standout players such as senior London Carson, juniors Cameron McRae and Jordan Torres, and the emerging talent of freshman guard Jayden Johnson, who is now a key player for the current squad with a record of 13-8.
Significant Milestones in Colicchio’s Career
Colicchio’s 600th win is a notable achievement, but his previous milestones were marked by even greater drama. Win No. 500 occurred on March 12, 2020, during the Group 4 semifinals against Paterson Kennedy at Dunn Center in Elizabeth. This match took place just days before schools and businesses closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making it a poignant moment in the context of the ongoing public health crisis.
Win No. 400 was achieved earlier on March 3, 2016, when Colicchio’s Linden team faced Asbury Park in the Group 4 final in Toms River. That victory set the stage for further success, as Linden advanced to the Tournament of Champions, ultimately reaching the final against the powerhouse St. Anthony before falling 55-38.
Colicchio’s contributions to high school basketball in New Jersey are profound, marked by a commitment to excellence and the development of young athletes. As he continues his journey, his 600th win stands as a testament to his enduring legacy in the sport.
