That was a common joke very tall men heard back in the day. We use to worked with this tall brother who was I believe 6' 8", and he told me he hated when people would say that to him. I'm pretty sure he was hearing it from mostly White people, and probably from some of the visitors who would pass by him on our job. But I don't think spitting on someone ever crossed his mind, on or off the job, at least I hope not. I assume he thought most of them meant no harm. Now in Wilt's case, although that was still very wrong, he probably did it because he felt the stranger recognized him, instead of respecting him, plus the person was probably White. Not sure if Kareem should have told this story, but you'd be shock at some of he things that go on in those circles.