SAN DIEGO, Oct. 23 (Ticker) -- Kobe Bryant showed that he was in midseason form for the Los Angeles Lakers.

Bryant scored 25 points and Chris Mihm chipped in with 14 and 11 rebounds as the Lakers posted a 98-97 preseason triumph over the Charlote Bobcats at ipayOne Center.

NBA TV highlights from Bobcats-Lakers: Play

The Bobcats put forth a valiant effort late in the fourth quarter, but Bryant saved his best for last.

Kareem Rush converted 1-of-2 free throws with about a minute remaining to pull Charlotte within two, but Los Angeles clinched the win on its ensuing possession.

Mihm took a feed in the low post and dished to Bryant, who drilled a 17-foot jumper from the left elbow to give the Lakers a 98-94 lead with 50 seconds left.

Lamar Odom collected 12 points, 10 rebounds and six assists while Smush Parker - who will likely start opposite Bryant in the backcourt - added 13 points for Los Angeles.

Primoz Brezec paced the Bobcats with 20 points and 14 rebounds before fouling out with about four minutes to go. Rush scored 14 points and rookie Raymond Felton chipped in with 12 and seven assists for Charlotte, which squandered a 48-43 lead at halftime.