New York ? Breaking a franchise-high losing streak was a start, but the New York Liberty won’t feel good until they lock a playoff spot.

Vickie Johnson scored 16 points, and the Liberty snapped a five-game losing streak with a 60-48 victory over the Cleveland Rockers Sunday.

“I would say it’s a big win — it’s a win, and we haven’t had one of those in a while,” center Tari Phillips said. “After losing five in a row, every game is a must-win. We must win just to feel better.

“And this feels better, I’ll tell you that.”

Phillips had 12 points and 11 rebounds to notch her eighth double-double for the Liberty (10-13), who shot 46 percent from the field and were never threatened by Cleveland’s ineffective offense.

New York, which lost to Detroit on a last-second shot Friday, is fighting for the fourth playoff spot in the Eastern Conference.

“Its still very close — no one can afford to go into a drought right now,” coach Richie Adubato said.

Chasity Melvin scored 18 points, and LaToya Thomas added 14 for Cleveland (12-14), which shot 33 percent from the field and hit only one of its 13 three-point attempts.

Monarchs 76, Sting 60

Sacramento, Calif. — Kara Lawson, Tangela Smith and DeMya Walker each scored 15 points as Sacramento won its fourth straight .

Ticha Penicheiro had nine points and nine assists for the Monarchs, who have won seven of eight since interim coach John Whisenant replaced the fired Maura McHugh.

Mercury 70,

Mystics 69, 2OT

Washington — Lisa Harrison made one of two free throws with 20.7 seconds remaining as Phoenix beat Washington in double overtime.

Sun 66, Fever 55

Uncasville, Conn. — Nykesha Sales scored 14 of her 18 points in the second half to lead Connecticut to victory.