Houston, which edged New York for the Eastern Conference title and knocked off Charlotte in the semifinals, finished 20-10. The Liberty, who advanced with a semifinal win at Phoenix, were 18-12. Cooper scored 11 points in a tight first half that saw Houston take a 28-24 lead. Although it never led, New York stayed close behind Johnson, who scored eight points. I think those are the most important five minutes.
Many people think it's the last five minutes.
But if you take care of those three five minutes, you don't have to worry about the last five minutes. I think we defended and rebounded well. We wanted to play tough, solid basketball in the first five minutes and take control of the game. The backcourt of Teresa Weatherspoon and Sophia Witherspoon combined for nine points and seven turnovers. ESPN Inc. All rights reserved.