The last time a Houston franchise won a playoff game, its coach was:

That acquisition was followed by the purchase of a new and as yet unnamed Houston franchise for $700 million last October.

His name is Charley Casserly, general manager of the Houston franchise, which does not play until 2002.

It is the first WNBA season ever without a Houston franchise, the Comets having folded in December 2008.

Cruz had played in more games than any other player in the history of the Houston franchise (1,870) before being passed by Craig Biggio in 2001.

However, that same year he sold the rights to the name "Texans" for a reported $10 million to the new Houston franchise.

The new Houston franchise will begin play in 2002.

The Astros 2005 season was the most successful season on the field for the Houston franchise.

Realignment is being forced upon the owners because the new Houston franchise will begin play in 2002.

By comparison, the new Houston franchise was sold for $700 million to Bob McNair, who said he will own between 30 and 50 percent of the new team.