"I also want to make it clear that I do not question the motives of this young woman. No money has been paid to this woman. She has agreed that this statement will not be used against me in the civil case. Although I truly believe this encounter between us was consensual, I recognize now that she did not and does not view this incident the same way I did. After months of reviewing discovery, listening to her attorney, and even her testimony in person, I now understand how she feels that she did not consent to this encounter.
I issue this statement today fully aware that while one part of this case ends today, another remains. I understand that the civil case against me will go forward. That part of this case will be decided by and between the parties directly involved in the incident and will no longer be a financial or emotional drain on the citizens of the state of Colorado."
The excerpt from Bryant's statement is nothing more than an invitation to negotiate a settlement of some sort. It appears he made the statement, at the advice of his counsel, to mitigate any public reaction to a negotiated settlement. It would be beneficial to both parties' reputations to avoid any trial and further disclosure of their sexual histories, and Bryant was letting everyone know he was willing to pay some price to shelter such information. The fact that the civil suit is going forward simply tells me the parties could not agree on a price for their respective reputations.
If she agreed Bryant's statement could not be used against him, then how is it an admission? And if you think Bryant did anything more than read a statement prepared by his attorneys I think you are hopelessly naive. All it acknowledges is that Bryant now understands his accusers interpretation of the events and how she arrived at them. He continues to assert his belief the acts were consensual. At no point does he admit her interpretation is correct or even reasonable. He was simply laying the groundwork for an attempt to negotiate a settlement.
BTW, this:
The fact that the civil suit is going forward simply tells me the parties could not agree on a price for their respective reputations.
also could meant that Kobe isn't going to settle. I mean, they ARE in court, aren't they? If what you contend is true, what different would the dollar amount make to him?