Ouch!

Phil Cox, the black Chairman of UC's Board of Trustees, to CNNSI:

"We're trying to upgrade every aspect of the university, including student-athletes," Cox said. "And I have to tell you, as a person who happens to be African-American, there is a concern for anybody who gives the impression that the only athletes you can find may be carrying a gun or face other charges from the police. Other schools find African-Americans who are good students as well. I hope we can do it too."

UC fans are going crazy, pointing out a number of past and current black Bearcats who have graduated or are on schedule to graduate. However, I think they're missing the point. Cox uses an important word - "impression" - in his statement. It only takes one or two fools to ruin a university's reputation - regardless of how many good kids are there.

Nancy Zimpher (UC's president) is an egghead geek - but I think she (and the Board) have the high ground on this one.