Storm top Monarchs

SEATTLE – Lauren Jackson scored a season-high 31 points, and the Seattle Storm built a 20-point lead before holding on for a 74-67 win over the Sacramento Monarchs on Sunday night.

Seattle broke a four-game losing streak, its longest skid since dropping five straight in August of 2003.

Seattle led 48-30 at halftime, but Sacramento’s defense tightened in the second half, and cut Seattle’s lead to 63-61 with 3:42 left after two free throws from Ticha Penicheiro.

Jackson scored, and fellow Australian Suzy Batkovic made two jumpers, the second with 1:51 left to put Seattle up 69-64.

Sacramento’s Kristin Haynie made two free throws before Jackson’s 13-footer with 1:17 left put Seattle up 71-66. DeMya Walker added a free throw for the Monarchs (11-5), but Haynie missed a 3-pointer with 15 seconds left that could have pulled Sacramento within one.

Jackson had not scored more than 17 points in her last three games, and scored just six in consecutive losses to Minnesota and Houston.

Against Sacramento, Jackson made 6 of 9 shots and both of her 3-point attempts in the first half. She finished 10-for-18 shooting and had 13 rebounds.

Jackson’s big night made up for off games from Sue Bird and Betty Lennox. The backcourt duo combined for just five points. Reserve Batkovic added 14 points.

Walker led Sacramento with 14 points, Penicheiro had 12 and Yolanda Griffith added nine.

Seattle is now 5-2 at home, after losing four on its recent road trip.