The 2003 Rookie of the Year, Ford began her second season by making 6-of-14 shots and 9-off 11 free throws. She also helped Detroit to a commanding 45-30 rebounding edge.
Detroit held a 35-30 lead at halftime and allowed San Antonio to stay in the game for most of the second half.
But Swin Cash scored eight of her 14 points in an 11-0 run that gave Detroit a 71-56 advantage with 1:03 to play.
Shannon Johnson scored 16 points and Marie Ferdinand added 14 for San Antonio. Gwen Jackson, who scored 26 in Thursday's season-opening win at Houston, was held to just six.
Deanna Nolan chipped in 13 points and newcomer Merlakia Jones chipped in 10 for the Shock.