Shock’s Comeback Falls Short

The Charlotte Sting nearly blew a 15-point lead in the final 4 1/2 minutes, but Andrea Stinson’s two free throws with 1.5 seconds remaining helped secure a 70-67 victory over the Detroit Shock on Saturday night in front of 8,435 at Auburn Hills, Mich.

Teana McKiver scored 15 points and fellow reserve Kelly Miller added 12 for the Sting. Charlotte’s reserves outscored Detroit’s, 35-2. The Shock was playing its season opener.

The Sting (2-1) led, 64-59, with 4:30 left before the Shock rallied. Detroit pulled to within one on two free throws by rookie Cheryl Ford, Karl Malone’s daughter. But after Charlotte’s Dawn Staley missed a three-point attempt, McKiver grabbed the rebound and Detroit had to foul Stinson. Shalonda Enis intercepted the ensuing inbounds pass for the Sting.

Indiana 71, Washington 60 -- Tamika Catchings had 15 points and 11 rebounds, Niele Ivey scored a career-high 14 points and Stephanie White added 13 for the Fever at Indianapolis. Murriel Page led Washington with 19 points and Chamique Holdsclaw added 17.

The announced paid attendance was 18,345, but the arena was less than half full.

Cleveland 74, New York 50 -- Betty Lennox scored 14 points to help the Rockers end a 10-game home losing streak in front of 7,317. Cleveland’s reserves scored 44 points.

Becky Hammon scored 20 points for New York.