I believe we see the "thug" mentality in the NFL, NBA, and... to some extent... in MLB. The NFL and NBA have seen the worst displays of that culture. And, we are seeing a mushrooming of similar mentality in the college ranks of football and basketball.
These kids are raised as idols. They are passed through school without being able to read, write, or speak intelligently. Why? Because they are meal tickets for multi-million dollar athletic programs. Successful high school coaches are paid six figures, while their scholatic teacher counterparts are struggling to get by. Successful athletic programs in colleges will see dozens of high salaried support staff dependant upon the ability of kids to perform on the field.
The egos are stroked and enhanced as these kids pass through school. Then, they are handed multi-million dollar contracts as they turn professional. No business experience or tutoring. Never have had consequences meted for bad behavior. Surround themselves with those no smarter then they. See "trophy" wives or girlfriends look past physical abuse simply to have access to the checkbook.
Until the public decides the practice of putting athletes on pedestals... As long as business are making millions promoting fantasy leagues, etc. we will continue to see professional sports populated with criminals that would be locked up if they were "typical" members of a civilized society.