NEWS ANALYSIS Public cools to Bryant's case as he faces first day in court

San Francisco Chronicle ^ | 8-06-03 | C.V. Nevius

[nyconse]

When Kobe Bryant walks into the courthouse today in Eagle, Colo., he will find that perceptions have changed dramatically.

When he was arrested July 4 and formally charged with sexual assault two weeks later, public opinion seemed firmly in his corner. The five-time NBA All- Star was lauded for his exemplary lifestyle, maturity and spotless image.

[nyconse]

Interesting summary for all you Kobe story addicts (like me). Enjoy!

[Yaelle]

Bryant speaks Italian??

[rolling_stone]

From what I hear he is working on his Greek too....

[duckman]

Yes, he was heard to say 'fongoul' (sp) to a reporter when asked about the case.

[#3Fan]

Amazing how a public image so clouds the minds. Don't people know that's it's just an image and may have nothing to do with a person's character? We can assume the best in people when there's no reports of a victim, but when we have a possible rape victim, people should wait for the evidence before they publically tear her down in a biased way. Glad to see some in the media have enough of a conscience to back off a little and look at the evidence that'll be presented.

[secret garden]

He used to live and play basketball in Italy.

[EllaMinnow]

Bump.

[ellery]

bttt