DENVER (AP) The team of prosecutors working on the sexual assault case against Kobe Bryant is growing.

The Jefferson County district attorney has agreed to let Dana Easter help his counterpart in Eagle County work on the case. Easter, a former nurse, specializes in crimes against children and sex crimes.

Legal experts said prosecutors were apparently gearing up for a court fight against Bryant's experienced defense team, Hal Haddon and Pamela Mackey.

``They're not surrendering, in fact, they're looking for reinforcements,'' Denver defense attorney Scott Robinson said Tuesday. ``I don't think it's fair to see this as anything but an indication that the prosecution isn't going to go down without a fight.''

Bryant, 25, is accused of raping a 19-year-old worker at the Eagle County hotel where he stayed June 30. The Los Angeles Lakers' guard has said the sex was consensual.

Bryant, free on $25,000 bond, faces four years to life in prison or 20 years to life on probation if convicted. No trial date has been set.