Re "Bryant Charged; He Admits Adultery but Denies Assault," July 19: As a teacher and basketball coach, I have witnessed the way young people view Kobe Bryant. To them, he is an idol and a hero. For the student who disliked reading, a book about Kobe often engendered an interest in a task that was previously considered banal. During a long basketball practice, Kobe was used as the example of work ethic, determination and defensive energy. Every free-dress day, the classroom was literally filled with oversized No. 8s.
When I discuss this matter with my class, I will acknowledge that Kobe made a decision that was morally reprehensible but that we should withhold judgment on the criminal charge. Kobe must be considered innocent until proven guilty. I hope that he is closer to the man we all thought he was than the man he is accused of being.
