Boston/Laker fans... what do you think of Paul Pierce's statement that he is the best player in the world?

Question

Finals MVP Paul Pierce, who recently spent three days at a ball camp in Madrid, is making, ahem, news about what he said to a Spanish reporter. The money translation, via RedsArmy: "Q: Is Kobe really the best player in the world? Pierce: I don't think Kobe is the best player. I'm the best player. There's a line that separates having confidence and being conceited. I don't cross that line but I have a lot of confidence in myself." Surprisingly, Spurs fans seem more upset by this than actual Lakers fans.

And what is up with the "Spurs" fan reference?

Answer 1

I definitely believe him, and about 100 other players claiming that they are the "best".....

Actually as of right now, I would consider Paul Pierce the best after this 2007-2008 season, because he did help win the NBA Championship, he averages over 20 ppg., he's given so much blood, sweat & tears to this sport and he also is popular among fans, which is a good selling point.

I would not consider Kobe "the best" in 2007-2008, because his rings were "old news" and he did not win them this season. Kobe was "the best" during those seasons he won the NBA Championship, but Michael Jordan deserves the label of "Best of All Time", because of his overall performance and NBA Championship wins.

Next year, who knows? Maybe there will be a new team to win the championship for 2008-2009 and a star may emerge as next season's "Best". I'm not taking Paul Pierce's claim to heart, but based on his performance, he has the right to claim something because he has a ring.

Answer 2

The only reason the Celtics even made it to the playoffs, let alone the finals is because of Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett.  A Paul Pierce led team without those two players would have landed them in dead last again.

Best player in the world?  No.

Is he part of the best team in the NBA? Yes.

Answer 3

OMG i cant even believe this guy is even saying that, as far as i know this guy would have had 20 wins had Garnett and allen not been there to cover his behind. Man im not a Kobe lover but come on anybody with two eyes could see Kobe is better offensively and defensively. I mean i dont even see Pierce on the USA basketball team. It was a big mistake, i think he got high before the interview.  

Answer 4

Thats Arrogance For You If Hes So Good How Come He Didnt Win A Championship before kevin garnett and ray allen came to boston

Answer 5

I'm a Spurs fan and I didn't catch that reference, so I can't speak to that.

To me, this is just the typical drivel for overpaid, immature, self-centered prima donna professional athletes.  In other words, it doesn't surprise me in the least and frankly, it is par for the course.