Charles, Jones sizzle in Sun win over Liberty

New York, NY, United States (AHN Sports) – Tina Charles racked up 19 points and 13 boards and Asjha Jones drained two big jumpers down the stretch as the Connecticut Sun notched a 78-73 victory over the New York Liberty Saturday at Madison Square Garden.

The Suns opened up their 2012 WNBA campaign on a winning note, leaning on steady dose of inside play, balanced scoring and clutch play.

Charles continued to be a dominant presence inside, using her 6-foo-4, 198 pound frame to pound her way to the hoop.

The Sun also got double-figure scoring from Allison Hightower (13 pts), Renee Montgomery (11 pts), Danielle McCray (10 pts), and the game’s hero Jones (12 pts).

With the Suns trailing the Liberty by two with 2:16 left to play, Jones tied the ball game with a tough fade-away shot and then knocked down another jumper to give her team a 73-71 lead with 31.4 second left in regulation.

The Liberty had the opportunity to re-take the lead or tie the ballgame but star guard Cappie Pondexter blew a crucial layup as Montgomery and McCray calmly knocked down their free-throws to seal the win.

Pondexter finished with 19 points and 5 boards and Plenette Pierson chalked up 15 points and 10 boards for the Liberty, who led by as many as nine points.

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