I have discussed this with my cousin (huge basketball fan) and my father (lawyer) numerous times since it was brought to my attention weeks ago by ESPN. Here is the outlook: What makes this suspicious is that it took the prosecution a week or two to decide to press charges against Bryant for sexually assaulting a woman. Maybe some talks "behind the scenes" by the prosection included talk of the media attention they would get. After all, they are pressing major charges against one of (if not the) best and most popular player in the NBA. Yes, you get popularity for bringing charges here, but in the end, if Bryant wins, it will kill the prosection. Rumors will be brought up that the prosection was malicious against Kobe and did this as an act for media (and for money).
Do I think Kobe is guilty or innocent? It is hard to tell right now, as all the general public knows is what he is accused of. I would hope he has not, as he is a symbol to many people. People who really know him think he is a nice person and would not do such a thing. However, as GINA mentioned, he has cheated on his wife (he still loves her, according to him). A girl coming out of nowhere and saying that Kobe assaulted her is unusual, but thats how it happens.
Final verdict: I am going to go with what I hope is true, making Kobe Bryant innocent! I am looking forward to seeing more opinions.