Friday, September 26 2008 -- Friday, September 26, 2008-- On Thursday, the Western Conference finals got underway, with the Los Angeles Sparks defeating the San Antonio Silver Stars in the first game of their three game series.

On Friday, it was the Eastern Conference's turn. The New York Liberty went up against the Detroit Shock at home...and won a squeaker, 60-56.

Both teams came out of the blocks firing blanks. The Liberty started 3-16 from the field, the Shock went 5-16. The Liberty's lousy stats can be attributed to the fact that they were trying too much, too soon, attempting and missing 6 three-point shot attempts.

The Shock took the lead and did not relinquh it until late in the third quarter, when the Liberty came back from a 9-point deficit to take the lead, with a much-needed 12-1 run.

But there were five minutes left in the game and the Shock kept it close, pulling to within a single point with 18 seconds left...but couldn't pull it out in the end.

The Liberty
Center Janel McCarville was top scorer with 17 points, and grabbed 4 rebounds. Shameka Christon scored 11 points, and grabbed 11 rebounds. No other player was in double figures, but nevertheless they scored enough to win. Essence Carson put in 8 points.

Cathrine Kraayeveld and Erlana Larkins tied with each pulling down 7 rebounds to help their team to the victory.

The Shock
For the Shock, Deanna Nolan was top scorer with 22 points. Katie Smith was next closest, with 13 points. No one else on the Shock team got into double figures. Center Kara Braxton came closest with 7 points.

Taj McWilliams-Franklin and Alexis Hornbuckle tied for the most rebounds, at 9 a piece.