Mercury Goes Cold in End and Loses to Rockers

The Phoenix Mercury, which had won three in a row on the road, was beaten by the Cleveland Rockers, 64-61, Sunday night at Cleveland.

Phoenix had three chances to tie the score in the final 15 seconds. Tonya Edwards had a three-point shot blocked by Mery Andrade, got the ball back and rattled another three-point try off the rim with 7.6 seconds to go. Phoenix again got the rebound and Michelle Griffiths launched a three-point shot that missed as the final buzzer sounded.

Eva Nemcova, Rushia Brown and Chasity Melvin scored 13 points apiece for the Rockers (7-5).

Brandy Reed scored 19 points and Jennifer Gillom had 15 to lead Phoenix (8-4).

Detroit 84, Charlotte 81--Elena Tornikidou scored 25 points, Tamicha Jackson made a clutch jump shot with 12 seconds left and an unusual call on a jump ball helped the Shock win at Charlotte.

With Detroit leading 82-81, Jackson tied up Charlotte point guard Dawn Staley in the lane with 37 seconds remaining. On the jump ball, Staley was called for touching the ball on its upward flight, giving the Shock possession.

Detroit (6-6) ran off most of the shot clock before Jackson made her shot from just inside the three-point line.

Shalonda Enis led the Sting (2-11) with 18 points and six rebounds.

Sacramento 92, Portland 76--Kedra Holland-Corn scored 20 points as the Monarchs earned their third consecutive victory by pulling away early in the second half at Sacramento.

The Monarchs (8-4) made nine three-point baskets and established a season high for points.

It was the eighth loss in nine games for Portland (2-8).