> There's always at least a bit of racist motivation for complaints about NBA players' "egos and attitudes".

Oh, is there? That's quite a harsh accusation -- it can get people instantly fired nowadays -- so I'm sure you can back it up.

> It's like a dog whistle in that certain audiences hear the message, and others don't.

You seem to be very good indeed at hearing this alleged dog whistle. Perhaps the problem is a little closer to home than you realize.