I think you missed his point. It is one thing to be a jerk in the professional setting and to professional athletes. It is entirely another to be a jerk to a waitress, car washer, flight attendant, etc.
Naw, people don't change if they are hardcore off the court they can be hardcore off it. Russell didn't like signing autographs for instance because he would rather shake hands and didn't want to sign something for someone who would not shake his hand as a matter of principal. Didn't matter the case or the like, he would not do it.
I personally, do not like Michael Jordan and never did. I hated the Bull's teams because it was not us. But I could care less how he treats a waiter or service person. I know how elite top dawgs are I have met a few of them and they view you as priveleged to be in their presence.
Larry was not that way. He tipped good. But some of these guys are jerks on and off the court. I don't put them on a pedastal and worship them. They are men and flawed just like you or I although they have remarkable skill or talent.
A lot of regular guys are mean to service people too. I am always thankful for good service but if service is poor I too can be a jerk to them. I don't cuss them out but I won't tip if service is bad. I am lot bigger and more muscular than Jordan and taller but it is no excuse to act like a jerk.