As often happens with the dynamic Lakers star, Bryant prevailed.

The Los Angeles Times and Riverside (Calif.) Press-Enterprise, citing sources, reported that in a meeting with Lakers owner Jerry Buss yesterday in Barcelona, Spain, Bryant had reiterated the trade demand he first made three weeks ago.

The Press-Enterprise, again citing sources, said Bryant, the only NBA player with a no-trade clause, has a three-team wish list that includes the Bulls and Knicks.

For now, the Bulls are working under the assumption the Lakers have no desire to deal their nine-time All-Star guard. That stance is supported by a statement Buss released two weeks ago. Should Lakers management change its mind and pursue trade options, the Bulls, like any NBA team, would have interest.

But depleting the roster of multiple assets like Luol Deng and Ben Gordon to match Bryant's $19.5 million salary likely would give general manager John Paxson pause.

The Bulls first impressed Bryant when Paxson and club Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf met him and agent Rob Pelinka in Newport Beach, Calif., on July 6, 2004, the summer of Bryant's free agency.

Their pitch included the Bulls' philosophy of accountability under Paxson and coach Scott Skiles, the chance to follow in Michael Jordan's footsteps, a growing talent base and the city of Chicago.

Bryant, who would have had to force a sign-and-trade deal from the Lakers, also was said to be impressed that Bulls officials kept the visit quiet for eight days.

Ultimately, Bryant re-signed with the Lakers for seven years and $136.4 million, of which four years and $88.6 million remain. Bryant also can opt out of his deal after the 2008-09 season, making any deal for the two-time scoring champion a risk.

As for Conley Jr., some might say working out for the Bulls is superfluous, given that virtually every mock draft has the crafty point guard gone by the ninth pick. Olympic gold medalist Mike Conley Sr., who is advising his son, eloquently addressed the Bulls' decision to do so.

"I'm biased because I grew up in Chicago and I would love nothing more than to have my son play here," said Conley Sr., a Luther South graduate. "It's a great organization and a team that's on the cusp of doing special things. It would be a great situation for Mike. It may be an outside shot. But it's a shot worth taking."

Adding the 6-foot-1-inch Conley Jr. to an already smallish backcourt would seem a long shot for the Bulls, even if the Ohio State freshman is the top-rated point guard. But Paxson and his staff have worked out the top three point guards, doing due diligence in case trade opportunities arise with current or prospective assets on draft night June 28.

"The Bulls' style is up-and-down, really guard-oriented and unselfish," Conley Jr. said. "I like that about their team and personnel. I feel I'm the same type of player."