Storm Pounds Mercury

Lauren Jackson had 21 points and six rebounds Thursday night as the Seattle Storm opened its season with an 83-70 victory over the Phoenix Mercury at Seattle.

The Storm, a WNBA-worst 6-26 last season, foiled Cynthia Cooper’s second try for a first coaching victory. Cooper, a former USC guard, retired from the four-time WNBA champion Houston Comets at the end of last season.

Jackson, a 6-foot-5 center from Australia chosen first in April’s WNBA draft, made six of 11 shots and eight of 11 free throws.

Before the game, Mercury forward Brandy Reed was suspended indefinitely for “conduct detrimental to the team.” The team provided no other details.

Reed, who warmed up with her teammates, was not on the bench during the game.

Houston 82, Indiana 78--Tina Thompson and Janeth Arcain each scored 26 points to lead the Comets at Indianapolis.

The loss spoiled the WNBA coaching debut of Nell Fortner, who led the U.S. Olympic team to a gold medal in Sydney.

Cleveland 69, Washington 34--Merlakia Jones scored 17 points to lead the rout at Cleveland.

The Mystics’ point total was a WNBA record. The previous low of 39 points was scored by the Portland Fire against the Comets last June 30 at Houston.

Miami 68, New York 59--Sandy Brondello, who sat out last season to play for the Australian Olympic team, scored 21 points to lead the Sol at Miami.

Minnesota 82, Portland 65--Katie Smith scored 31 points for the Lynx at Portland, Ore.

Comet forward Amaya Valdemoro will be sidelined up to three months after knee surgery. Valdemoro, who averaged 5.3 points and three rebounds in three exhibition games, went on the injured list Sunday. Team physician Walter Lowe performed the surgery Wednesday.