Shannon Johnson of the Seattle Storm knocks the ball away from Ticha Penicheiro - who scored 11 points - during the first half. The Monarchs lost 71-61 to the Seattle Storm during their season opener at Arco Arena on Saturday, June 6, 2009.
Randy Pench | rpench@sacbee.com
Monarchs head coach Jenny Boucek, right, talks to Chelsea Newton, center, and Ticha Penicheiro before they re-enter the game during the first half.
Randy Pench | rpench@sacbee.com
Tanisha Wright of the Seattle Storm, who scored 21 points, is guarded by Kara Lawson of the Sacramento Monarchs during the first half.
Randy Pench | rpench@sacbee.com
Monarchs head coach Jenny Boucek walks back to the bench during the game.
Randy Pench | rpench@sacbee.com
Ticha Penicheiro makes a drive toward the basket while being guarded by Tinisha Wright of the Seattle Storm during the first half.
Randy Pench | rpench@sacbee.com
Brother's Gavin, left, and Joe Maloof sit in their courtside seats while they enjoy the Monarchs game.
Randy Pench | rpench@sacbee.com
Kara Lawson launches a half-court shot at the end of the first half of play.
Randy Pench | rpench@sacbee.com
Rebekkah Brunson - back from a knee injury - is guarded by Janell Burse (33) during the second half.
Randy Pench | rpench@sacbee.com
Laura Harper goes up for a basket while guarded by Lauren Jackson of the Seattle Storm during the second half.
Randy Pench | rpench@sacbee.com
Monarchs rookie Courtney Paris, who went scoreless during the game sits on the bench during the second half.
Randy Pench | rpench@sacbee.com
Monarchs head coach Jenny Boucek yells to her players during the second half while assistant coach Tom Abatemarco, left, watches the action.
Randy Pench | rpench@sacbee.com
Shannon Johnson of the Seattle Storm makes a move around Scholanda Robinson of the Monarchs during the first half of their season opener.
Randy Pench | rpench@sacbee.com
Disappointment shows in the face of Kara Lawson as after the Monarchs lost 71-61 to the Seattle Storm during their season opener at Arco Arena on Saturday, June 6, 2009.