Sports briefs for August 19, 2004

Thursday, Aug. 19, 2004 | 9:58 a.m.

California moves to abolish 'Redskins'

A bill banning California's public schools from using "Redskins" as a team or mascot name is moving to the desk of Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger after the state Assembly approved it Wednesday.

The Assembly voted 43-28 to approve changes made by the Senate when it passed the bill Monday. The Assembly originally approved the legislation in January.

If signed by Schwarzenegger, the bill would take effect Jan. 1, 2006. Only five schools -- Calaveras High School, Chowchilla Union High School, Colusa High School, Gustine High School and Tulare Union High School -- use Redskins as team names, according to legislative records.

The Assembly's action ended a long legislative quest by Assemblywoman Jackie Goldberg, D-Los Angeles, to remove the name from school sports teams.

"This is the last time I intend to bring up this issue," said Goldberg, who originally aimed to bar a longer list of Native American names, but couldn't win approval from lawmakers.

Knicks keep Baker

The New York Knicks re-signed forward Vin Baker. An 11-year veteran, Baker averaged 9.8 points and 5.2 rebounds in 54 games for the Knicks and Boston Celtics last season.

Pettitte's year ends

The Houston Astros announced that Andy Pettitte would have surgery on his troublesome left elbow next week and be finished for the season. Pettitte was put on the 15-day disabled list for the third time this season.

NASCAR shifts gears

In an attempt to control escalating costs and enhance racing, NASCAR announced a new gear rule for the Nextel Cup, Busch Series and Craftsman Truck Series.

The rule, which will take effect with the 2005 season, will restrict teams to gear ratios determined by NASCAR in an effort to limit maximum engine revolutions per minute.

Hewitt in quarters

Lleyton Hewitt moved into the quarterfinals of the Legg Mason Tennis Classic with a 6-3, 6-2 win over Alejandro Falla.

Damphousse signs

The Colorado Avalanche signed veteran center Vincent Damphousse to a one-year contract on Wednesday.