HOUSTON, July 9 (Ticker) -- The Detroit Shock took advantage of curious decision by Houston Comets coach Van Chancellor.

Ruth Riley scored 16 points as the Shock built a big lead before holding on for a 66-60 victory over the struggling Comets.

NBA TV highlights from Shock-Comets: Play

All-Star Deanna Nolan added 11 points for the Shock (13-6), who head into the midseason break one game behind first-place Connecticut in the Eastern Conference.

Riley scored 10 points in the first half, helping the Comets build a 42-30 lead. The advantage grew to 50-32 with 4:48 left in the third quarter on a basket by Nolan.

But the Comets rallied behind Mistie Williams, who scored all 12 of her points after halftime. All-Star Sheryl Swoopes made a jumper with 36 seconds remaining to pull the Comets within 64-60.

Chancellor, who has guided the Comets to four WNBA titles, elected to not to foul on the Shock's ensuing possession. The decision backfired as Katie Smith converted a layup with 16 seconds left to seal things.

Detroit shot 48 percent (27-of-56) from the field and held a 32-25 rebounding advantage.

Swoopes scored 14 points to pace the Comets, who played without All-Star and leading scorer Tina Thompson (calf).

Houston (12-9) heads into the break in the midst of a season-high three-game losing streak.