Sports People

Ernest Givins, Houston’s leading career receiver with 542 catches, was released by the Oilers, who cited the economic realities of the salary cap… . Theresa Grentz, who coached the U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team to a bronze medal in 1992, is leaving Rutgers University after 20 years and nine straight NCAA Tournament berths to take over as head coach at University of Illinois… . Mark Simpson, captain of the Montana State track team, was sentenced to two days in jail and a $500 fine for beating up an off-duty Bozeman, Mont., police officer in 1993.

Connecticut basketball All-American Rebecca Lobo agreed to an endorsement contract with Spalding Sports Worldwide. … In Tokyo, undefeated Orzubek Nazarov (21-0) of Kyrgyzstan knocked out South Korean Park Won in the second round to retain his WBA lightweight crown… . Joe “The Toe” Vetrano, who made 108 consecutive extra points during his four years (1947-50) with the 49ers, died last Wednesday in San Francisco.