Rob Hampton scored 23 points and pulled down six rebounds to lead Norfolk State to a 63-53 win over Howard in Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference play on Monday night.
The Spartans (3-13, 2-3) led 25-24 at halftime and started the second half on a 16-5 run to go ahead 41-29 with 12:23 left to play. Two free throws from Hampton extended Norfolk State's lead to 49-34 with 8:31 remaining.
Howard (2-15, 0-5) closed the deficit to 54-48 with 3 minutes to go after a free throw by Anton Dickerson, but that was as close as the Bison would get.
Mike Phillips scored 11 points and grabbed eight rebounds for the Bison, who have lost seven straight. Dadrian Collins added 11 points and seven rebounds, and Kyle Riley scored 10.
Norfolk State has won two of three after starting the year 1-12 and won its first game decided by 10 points or less (1-6).
