Michael Jordan is one of the greatest basketball players for many reasons. One of the biggest reasons is his competitive nature. The Chicago Bulls icon is always looking for ways to have an advantage over his opponents. From a physical standpoint, some of it comes naturally to him.
Throughout his career, Michael Jordan was known for his athleticism and ability to finish around the rim. Part of the reason he’s able to hit so many tough layups is because he maintains good control of the ball. This wouldn’t be possible if he didn’t have big hands for his size.
Jordan once detailed the advantages his hand size gave him. I compared the increased grip to a painter using a paintbrush.
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“The grip to get the ball and be able to move it,” Jordan said. “It’s like having a paintbrush. Being able to create.”
Michael Jordan said few players have such big hands that allow him to catch the ball in this way. He compared him to NBA legend Julius Erving. During his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, he was one of the best prospects in the game.
“Dr. J does this. If you notice Dr. J’s hands, you’ll see that his thumb is far away from his fingers, which gives him a better grip. He can pick the ball up off the dribble and Do whatever he wants with the items.”
Michael Jordan isn’t the only star to benefit from having big hands
As Michael Jordan mentioned, many other players benefit from the size of their hands. I’m using Dr. J as an example, but there are some more recent examples. The one receiving the most attention is Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard.
Like Jordan, Kawhi has very large hands for his size. This has helped him on both sides of the ball throughout his career. It’s most commonly used defensively, but can also benefit his offense.
Former Toronto Raptors coach Nick Nurse talked about Kawhi’s hands while talking with JJ Redick on the “Old Man and Three” podcast. He feels the size gives him an advantage because the grip on the ball allows him to make the most of his skills.
“You’ve seen the size and strength of his hands,” Nurse said. “When he broke his wrist, he really got all the power in his shot. A lot of the power was concentrated in his wrist and fingers.”