Holdsclaw’s Return Can’t Help Mystics

The return of All-Star forward Chamique Holdsclaw wasn’t enough to stop the Washington Mystics’ losing streak from reaching three games.

Yolanda Griffith had 22 points and eight rebounds to lead the Sacramento Monarchs to a 69-61 victory over the Mystics before 14,056 at Washington.

Holdsclaw, who returned from a four-game absence because of a strained right hamstring, led the Mystics with 17 points on six-for-22 shooting and grabbed 17 rebounds.

“I decided to play tonight whether it hurts or not,” Holdsclaw said. “But shooting six for 22 is not acceptable by any of my standards.

“I know I’m a much better player and capable of knocking those shots down. I just have to do it.

“I’ve only played in four games, and I just started practicing two days ago.”

Griffith said her best game is yet to come.

“We’re still trying to find our chemistry,” she said. “I’ve been struggling to put the ball in the basket, but we just have to build from this.”

Kara Lawson scored seven of the last 10 points for Sacramento and finished with 14 as the Monarchs (4-7) won for only the second time in their last eight games.

Lady Grooms added 13 points.

Coco Miller and Stacey Dales-Schuman scored 12 points apiece for the Mystics (2-6), who went 1-3 without Holdsclaw.

Connecticut 70, Cleveland 57 -- Shannon Johnson had 13 points and 10 assists to lead the Sun before 4,054 at Uncasville, Conn.

Cleveland rookie LaToya Thomas -- the WNBA’s top draft pick out of Mississippi State -- had a season-best 18 points and 13 rebounds before fouling out in the closing minutes.

Nykesha Sales paced the Sun with 14 points, and Wendy Palmer added a season-high 13 as Connecticut avenged last week’s 28-point loss at Cleveland.

The Connecticut defense clamped down on the Rocker outside game as Cleveland managed only three three-point baskets in 15 attempts.

The Sun dominated inside, outscoring Cleveland, 42-22, in the paint.

Chasity Melvin added 12 points for Cleveland.