I'm originally from LA so by default I am a Lakers fan, and I do think Kobe has a lot of talent. However, I also think he knows it. And won't let us forget it. Ever. Although after all of his personal drama (cheating, rape charges, etc.) became public he has calmed down a bit. Or maybe it was his balding head that calmed him down.
Here's Kobe in 2002, with a nice full head of hair:
Here he is 2007. You can see the hairline has receded a little bit, but not too noticeable. What is noticeable is that Mr. Bryant used to do more with his hair, and around this time he just kept it shaved.
And here are some pictures from this month. You can see the hairline has definitely receded and he is keeping his hair as short as possible.