American vs. Howard game recap: Phillips' late jumpers help seal comeback win for Bison

Calvin Thompson and Simuel Frazier hit key free throws down the stretch and the Howard Bison completed a comeback to top the American University Eagles on Tuesday night, 55-50, from Burr Arena in Washington, D.C.

Mike Phillips led the Bison attack with 19 points and 12 rebounds as Howard was constantly fighting from behind against the Eagles. Down two at the half and three in the closing minutes of the second half, the Bison found a way to battle back and take a lead they would hold on to behind Thompson and Frazier's key shooting late.

Howard closed on a 12-4 run for the victory, a run started on a jumper by Phillips. American responded right back, extending its lead to 48-45. Phillips then hit two key jumpers to give the Bison a lead they wouldn't give back.

After Phillips gave the Bison a 49-48 lead, Howard took control and withstood a tip in by American's Mike Bersch that brought the Eagles back within one at 51-50 for the win.