Bucknell 66, American U. 47

Feb 27, 2013, 09:47 pm

LEWISBURG, Pa. -- Mike Muscala scored 21 points as Bucknell dispatched American University 66-47 Wednesday night to clinch the No. 1 seed in the Patriot League Tournament for a record fifth time and become the first team in conference history to win three straight outright regular-season titles.

The Bison (24-5, 11-2), who escaped with a 56-55 win over the Eagles on Jan. 30, are tied for fourth-most wins in program history.

Bucknell led 29-20 at halftime. American got within five twice in the second half, the last time at 38-33 with 13:07 left, then Joe Willman made two free throws and Muscala scored on a three-point play to end the threat.

Cameron Ayers added 18 points to surpass 1,000 career points and Bryson Johnson scored 16 for the Bison, who will have home-court advantage throughout the conference tourney.

Tony Wroblicky's 13 points led the Eagles (10-18, 5-8), who have dropped three straight games.