Celtics great Cowens to coach Chicago team that will debut in ‘06

NBA Hall of Famer Dave Cowens was hired Thursday to coach and be the general manager of Chicago’s expansion WNBA team.

Cowens, 57, a seven-time NBA All-Star who also coached in the league, said the challenge of launching Chicago’s team in 2006 drew him to the job.

“This seemed like an adventure, this seemed like something a little bit different, so I put it all together and decided this was the best thing for me to do,” Cowens said.

Sparks 84, Mystics 75: Chamique Holdsclaw had 27 points and 10 rebounds in her return to Washington and Los Angeles overcame a league-record 15 3-pointers by the Mystics to take the win.

Fever 67, Liberty 59: Kelly Miller had 19 points to help Indiana defeat New York and improve to 3-0 for the first time in franchise history.

Mercury 68, Sting 58: Anna DeForge scored 20 points to help Phoenix top host Charlotte and win its first game of the season.