Shock Wins its Only Preseason Tune-up

Originally Published: May 9, 2010 6:40 PM CDT

Bobby Lewis
Oklahoma Sports Mobile Journalist

TULSA, Oklahoma – The Tulsa Shock didn’t play a perfect game, but did quiet the Seattle Storm 90-80 in its only exhibition game before Saturday’s season opener.

"We've got a long ways to go and a very short amount of time to get there," said head coach Nolan Richardson. "We're not ahead of schedule, but we're pretty good."

Tulsa got double-digit scoring from five different players, including a team-high 14 points from both Kara Braxton and Amber Holt. Plenette Pierson added 13 points and four assists.

"I've been known as that energy player," Pierson said after the game. "Hopefully that becomes contagious to the rest of the team."

The scrimmage had its ups and downs. Richardson was pleased that the Shock forced 32 turnovers, but wasn’t thrilled with 22 they committed on their own. Foul trouble was a big issue for both teams. Each club committed 25 personal fouls.

Marion Jones returned to competitive basketball for the first time since her college days at the University of North Carolina. Jones scored four points in 11:26 minutes of action against Seattle. She picked up two steals and three rebounds and impressed Richardson with her effort.

"That's why we wanted to keep Marion, because she plays with her heart," said Richardson. "She plays with her heart and is a gifted athlete. Today, I saw her do some things that were incredible."

"Just to be able to play here for the first time," said Jones, "it feels good."

After leading 48-40 at halftime, Tulsa got off to a slow start in the third quarter. Sue Bird hit three 3-pointers to help cut into the Shock lead. Seattle took the lead at one point, 54-52, but Tulsa closed the game on a 28-18 run to seal the win.

Seattle got 15 points each from Lauren Jackson and Tanisha Wright.

Tulsa must cut its roster down to 11 players by Wednesday. The team had 14 players in uniform on Sunday.

The Shock will host the Minnesota Lynx on Saturday, May 15th, at the BOK Center. Tip-off is set for 7:05 p.m.