San Jose Holds Off New England

HARTFORD, Conn. — Jennifer Azzi scored 20 points--all in the second half--and made two crucial free throws in the final seven seconds Friday night as the San Jose Lasers rallied for an 80-78 victory over the New England Blizzard in an ABL playoff game.

Azzi scored 16 points in the fourth quarter for the Lasers, who lead the best-of-three series, 1-0. Game 2 is Sunday at San Jose.

New England missed eight shots in a row down the stretch before Shanda Berry’s basket with 7.9 seconds remaining cut San Jose’s lead to 78-76. Azzi, who outscored the Blizzard, 16-15, in the final quarter, then made two free throws with 6.2 seconds left to secure the victory.