Liberty downs Washington

Vickie Johnson had 23 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists, and the New York Liberty pulled away last night to beat the Mystics, 77-68, in Washington.

Johnson went 9 for 12 from the field, and Becky Hammon added 13 points and five assists for the Liberty (1-2).

Fever 61, Monarchs 60 -- Rookie guard Yolanda Paige, shooting free throws for an injured teammate, made one of two shots as Indiana held on at Indianapolis.

Tully Bevilaqua was fouled hard as she drove for a fast-break layup with the score tied at 60. When she was taken to the training room with an apparent knee sprain, Monarchs coach John Whisenant was allowed to pick any Fever player to shoot the free throws. He chose Paige, but she made one shot.