It could risk the stalker either going into a denial frenzy where suddenly crazy becomes the norm, or they might find a way to dismiss the answer so that their obsession doesn't have to stop (which itself could be further denial). The one being stalked doesn't know what to expect beyond assumptions of context. For many, the presentation of possible risk outweighs their willingness to confront a problem if given enough reason in their mind to feel that way.
Knowing what's "best for them" can get around a "No" as well. Some people can't take a hint, and then some others can't even take an answer.
I don't think you had any real stalkers to begin with, especially if they were athletes in school. They were probably some men who weren't used to hearing no. At best you had a pair of rejected stalkers. Which are seen by the stalking community as low lifes and peasants.