What They’re Saying

“Naturally, we’re disappointed with today’s announcement. While there are many questions concerning this issue, we will wait for time and the judicial process to answer them. In the meantime, we will continue to offer our support to Kobe and his family.”

-- Mitch Kupchak, Laker GM

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“As with all allegations of a criminal nature, it is the NBA’s policy to await the outcome of a judicial proceeding [before taking possible disciplinary action].”

-- David Stern, NBA commissioner, in a statement

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“A lot of people will question whether it’s true. He’s shown he’s a good person.... We’re not going to say he’s a monster because of something someone else says.”

-- Ray Allen, Seattle guard, to ESPN

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“I don’t want to comment.... People commented on situations I got in and I didn’t like it at all.”

-- Allen Iverson, Philadelphia guard, in a news conference

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“I could see him drawing on his internal fortitude in this situation. There’s no person I’d rather be in a foxhole with.”

-- Gregg Downer, Bryant’s former high school coach

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“I’m a little disappointed. ... I hope it wasn’t rape because I like the way he plays. It probably will affect the way I look at him. It’s hard to make it a personal thing because I don’t know him. I’m still rooting for the Lakers.”

-- Soonie Park, 27, North Hollywood

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” ... I hope this doesn’t damage the [Laker] season. We’re looking forward to seeing all four of them [Bryant, Shaquille O’Neal, Karl Malone, Gary Payton] together.”

Marcos Villalvazo, 29, Los Angeles

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“Why did he wait so long to make that admission of [adultery]? ... He did the same thing Clinton did. He waited until the ax fell, then they cop out. Now the public is going to say, ‘Well, maybe there is something there.’ I still think he’s a great player and a great guy, but he kind of blew it there.”

Eddie Talamantes, 68, Hollywood