Reed, Mercury Hand Sting Its Worst Loss Ever, 90-57

Brandy Reed tied her career high with 32 points Thursday as the visiting Phoenix Mercury defeated Charlotte, 90-57, the Sting’s most lopsided loss ever.

Reed, who had only eight points at halftime, scored 12 in a game-breaking 19-4 second-half run. She also had 13 rebounds, seven steals and six assists, all team highs.

Tonya Edwards scored 19 points for Phoenix (7-3). Jennifer Gillom added 11 and Michelle Griffiths 10.

The Sting (2-9) is 0-5 at home this season. The team was outrebounded 40-25, had 17 turnovers and gave up 14 steals. Charlotte also made only one of 10 three-point baskets.

The Sting’s previous worst defeat was 81-49 at the Cleveland Rockers in 1997.

Orlando 77, Cleveland 64--Taj McWilliams scored 10 of her 22 points during a 16-4 run early in the second half as the Miracle defeated the Rockers at Orlando, Fla.

McWilliams, who had two three-point plays during the decisive run, also had 11 rebounds. Nykesha Sales scored 16 of her 18 points in the first half for the Miracle (6-5).

Minnesota 86, Utah 64--Katie Smith scored 21 points, including 14 in the first half, and Betty Lennox added 19 as the Lynx defeated the Starzz at Minneapolis, ending Utah’s four-game winning streak. Adrienne Goodson led the Starzz with 13 points.