Liberty 77, Storm 59

UpdatedJun 30, 2012 8:34 PM ET

With five days to practice and rest since a disappointing loss in their previous game, the New York Liberty were fired up against the Seattle Storm.

Essence Carson scored 22 points and Cappie Pondexter had 20 to lead the Liberty to a 77-59 victory over the Storm on Saturday.

''It was a big win, a much-needed win,'' Pondexter said. ''We were really striving to win. ... I think having a week off and getting our legs refreshed and our minds refocused, we were able to come out and win.''

Pondexter and Carson combined to shoot 15 for 30 from the field and 10 for 12 from the free-throw line. Pondexter also had a season-high seven rebounds and four assists.

The Liberty (5-9) hadn't played since a 10-point loss to Atlanta on Sunday, New York's fourth loss in five games.

''I'm sure she had in her mind she wanted to win today,'' Pondexter said of Carson. ''I did as well, especially coming off that last performance against Atlanta. We got back in the gym and worked on things, just prepared for today.''

DeMya Walker added 11 points for the Liberty, who lost leading rebounder Kia Vaughn to a concussion late in the second quarter. She did not return and finished with eight points and one rebound.

The Liberty were already without second-leading scorer and rebounder Plenette Pierson (strained left knee), who missed her fourth straight game and is not expected back until after the Olympic break.

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Liberty 77, Storm 59