After college, Phillips went on to play professional soccer as goalkeeper. He played for the Dallas Tornado from 1980 to 1981, the Wichita Wings, San Jose Earthquakes, and St. Louis Steamers. In April 1983, Phillips joined the Dallas Americans of the American Soccer League. On November 23, 1984, Phillips signed as a free agent to the Dallas Sidekicks for a 10-day contract. He later signed a full time contract with them on December 3, 1984. By doing this, he became the only player to wear the uniform of every professional soccer team that had represented Dallas up to 1984.