`` It is especially damaging because of their increased public profile , '' says John Amaechi . `` Male professional sports do have an issue with homophobia , but so does society in general , '' Chin , of Northeastern University , said . Sports leaders can `` turn these negative events into a positive teachable moment , '' expert says . Joakim Noah was fined $ 50,000 for his statement . homophobia Bulls center Joakim Noah was fined $ 100,000 for his slur .
`` It is especially damaging because of their increased public profile , '' says John Amaechi . Sports leaders can `` turn these negative events into a positive teachable moment , '' expert says . Joakim Noah was fined $ 50,000 for his statement . homophobia Bulls center Joakim Noah was fined $ 100,000 for his slur .