There aren't a lot of James Harden news nowadays, especially with his stint with Team USA uninspiring due to the talents of his other teammates in Derrick Rose and Anthony Davis. 

However, in an interview with ESPN's Scoop Jackson, the Rockets star answered some questions rather boldly.

After Jackson asked Harden who he thinks is the best basketball player alive right now, the 24-year-old star answered "myself". Jackson even tried to make things a lot clearer by stating that he was just about to add him as one of the best basketball players in that circle. 

But Harden insisted, "It is. Myself."

In fact, Harden did not only admit that he believes he is the best basketball player alive, he also said that he is 'nowhere near close' to his potential as a player. Right now, Harden ranks as among the top five shooting guards in the league with consistent scoring and occasional playmaking, but that may still be a long way from either LeBron James and Kevin Durant, who have already nabbed MVP awards and scoring champion honors in the past. 

Still, this boost of confidence from Harden is a testament that he is working very hard to further improve his game, especially his lackluster defense to put it mildly. 

Hopefully, that confidence of Harden in itself and with his partner center Dwight Howard will translate to an even deeper playoff run this upcoming NBA season. 

Harden, who is a sure lock as a starter for Team USA, will compete for the FIBA World Cup title which will kick off in Spain later this month.