The March to Madness

Once Again, Houston Doesn't Know Steps for Big Dance

Is Houston's Tom Penders in danger of losing his job?

The Cougars have averaged only 3,178, the lowest attendance since 2003-04, the season before Penders arrived.

Although Penders is 116-75, he hasn't been able to end Houston's NCAA tournament drought that dates to 1992. For Cougar fans, many of whom remember the Phi Slama Jama days of Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler, making the tournament is all that matters.

Steve Campbell of the Houston Chronicle writes that Penders' contract suggests officials expect around 15 victories a season and not much more:

"Penders' contract calls for an $8,000 bonus for each regular-season victory from No. 15 to No. 20, $9,000 for each one above 20. Compare that to the bonuses in place for winning the regular-season C-USA title ($20,000) or the C-USA tournament ($25,000).

Houston's Coleman Suspended for One Game

Houston's Aubrey Coleman, who was suspended for one game by Conference USA after stepping on the face of Arizona's Chase Budinger, talks about the incident and issues an apology.

Houston's Coleman Delivers a Facial

Houston's Aubrey Coleman stomps on the head of Arizona's Chase Budinger after he was called for a charge during Saturday's game at Tucson. Coleman was ejected.

The play ignited the Wildcats, who rallied from a 15-point deficit to win in overtime, 96-90. Coleman has apologized.