I don't quite understand why you speak of the troubles the Rutgers team suffered because of Imus's words. They would not likely be facing such problems if the comments made by Imus weren't blown out of proportion in the first place. It would all have long since been forgotten by now. I saw the situation as humorous. When Imus said those words, I was immediately reminded of the times I've heard White cast members or guests on predominantly Black sitcoms using "ebonics" occasionally. That was the joke: the fact that someone White was using Black language. That was the impression I got from that whole "nappy headed ####" thing. I didn't think it was that serious, especially not in today's culture. Most of the troubles experienced today by the Rutger's ladies is probably backlash from people who are justifiably angered by the firing of Imus. I don't know of anyone who'd actually think of these women as hoes because of Imus calling them that, so there wasn't anything slanderous about his words. Further, his words weren't any more "sexist" that those of the millions of women all over this country who casually call men "dogs" and don't face any consequences.