The Shock’s recent road trip to Houston and Indiana had an NBA flare added to it. Detroit arrived in Houston on July 14 with thoughts of two straight victories on the brain (Shock defeated the Comets 82-63 July 6 at The Palace for their first win over Houston), but unfortunately fell by the score of 97-61. Despite the disappointing loss, a few of the WNBA’s brethren were there to provide some words of encouragement.

After the game as the Shock were walking back onto the bus to head back to the hotel, guards Damon Jones and T.J Ford of the Milwaukee Bucks had a chance to speak with Coach Bill Laimbeer as well as some of the other players. Jones, an alumnus of the University of Houston encouraged fellow former cougar Chandi Jones to keep up the hard work and also spoke with shooting guard Deanna Nolan after her 16-point performance.

Also in attendance to support the WNBA was Memphis Grizzlies guard James Posey. With back-to-back away games the Shock had no time to dwell on the tough loss. They faced the Indiana Fever the following night but unfortunately, the advice of the NBA stars did not help. The Shock fell behind early and never regrouped, losing to Indiana, 85-73. That loss would drop Detroit (9-11) into a last place tie with New York in the Eastern Conference.

Coming off a harsh two-game road trip at Houston and Indiana the Shock looked to redeem themselves at home against the San Antonio Silver Stars on July 18th. With a led by as many as 17 points the Shock survived a late rally by the Stars to bring the 77-71 victory home. Center Ruth Riley led the way with 21 points however she was not alone. Deanna Nolan scored 19 points and Swin Cash added 18 points and 12 rebounds. The win keeps the shock in a fourth place tie with New York in the Eastern conference (10-11).

With five of the Shock’s six games before the August break against Eastern conference opponents, Detroit must stay focused over the next two weeks heading into August. The next MESP “On The Road” feature will follow the Shock to New York City as they play the first ever sporting event at Radio City Music Hall.