Liberty Keeps Sol Down

The New York Liberty turned up its defense in its home opener to fuel a late run that beat Miami, 58-52, Sunday at Madison Square Garden.

With the game tied, 52-52, New York forced two turnovers and a shot-clock violation to hold the Sol scoreless in the final three minutes. Crystal Robinson led the Liberty (3-1) with 16 points. Tamika Whitmore had 12 points, including four in the final 6-0 run. Sandy Brondello, who sat out the preseason with foot and quadriceps injuries, led the Sol (0-3) with 17 points. Miami center Ruth Riley will sit out at least four weeks because of a broken right finger.

Seattle 57, Portland 47--Sue Bird had 14 points and five assists as Seattle (1-1) held on to beat host Portland (0-3), which got one point from Jackie Stiles. Sylvia Crawley’s 16 points led the Fire (0-3).

Indiana 78, Detroit 65--Tamika Catchings scored 27 points and Nikki McCray added 21 as the Fever (2-0) spoiled the Shock’s home opener at Auburn Hills, Mich. Catchings was 12 for 12 from the free-throw line. Wendy Palmer’s 16 points led Detroit (0-3).