Storm win, remain ahead in playoff hunt

Janell Burse scored 23 points and Betty Lennox had 18 of her 22 in the first half as the Seattle Storm defeated the Charlotte Sting 87-81 Saturday night.

Lauren Jackson had 20 points and 11 rebounds as the Storm won for the sixth time in eight games. Seattle remained 2 1/2 games ahead of Phoenix for the fourth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference.

Monarchs 99, Mystics 95 (2OT): At Sacramento, Calif., Ticha Penicheiro scored nine of her season-high 15 points in the second overtime, and Sacramento overcame two game-tying rallies in a win over Washington.

Fever 76, Silver Stars 70: At Indianapolis, Tamika Whitmore scored 26 points and Tan White had 10 of her 18 in the fourth quarter as Indiana beat San Antonio.

Liberty 80, Sky 69: At New York, Shameka Christon and Ashley Battle scored 21 points apiece to lead New York to a victory over Chicago.

Mercury 96, Sparks 80: At Phoenix, Diana Taurasi had 34 points and seven assists to lead Phoenix to a victory over Los Angeles.