Paul Pierce has maintained what he told a Spanish newspaper recently - he believes he is the best player in the NBA today, according to The Providence Journal.

He was asked whether he thought Kobe Bryant was the best player in the league, saying no and giving himself the honor.

Pierce took home the MVP trophy following Boston's triumph over Los Angeles in the NBA Finals this June.

"I am a confident player, and a lot of people might look at it like 'Oh, another cocky attitude,' but I don't look at it that way," said Pierce.

"I have an opinion, I have a right to have one, and that's the way I feel. I felt I've played against the best over the years and felt right now that I'm the best player in the world."