Basketball, a game of finesse, athleticism, and skill, often hinges on the tiniest details. One such detail that can significantly impact a player’s performance is the size of their hands. Having large hands can provide advantages in ball control, shooting, and passing. In the NBA, where every inch matters, players with massive mitts stand out. Let’s explore the top players with the most impressive hand sizes in NBA history.
1. Boban Marjanovic
Boban Marjanovic, the towering center for the Houston Rockets, boasts the biggest hands in NBA history. His hand length measures an astounding 10.75 inches, while his hand span spans a whopping 12 inches. Imagine palming a basketball like it’s a grapefruit—Boban can do just that.
2. Shaquille O’Neal
The legendary Shaq, standing at 7 feet 1 inch, also possesses impressive mitts. His estimated hand length is 10.25 inches, matched by a hand span of 12 inches. Shaq’s ability to control the ball with ease contributed to his dominance in the paint during his illustrious career.
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo
The “Greek Freak” Giannis Antetokounmpo combines athleticism with sizable hands. His hand length measures 9.85 inches, complemented by a hand span of 12 inches. Giannis’s versatility and ball-handling skills benefit from his substantial mitts.
4. Julius Erving (Dr. J)
Before Michael Jordan graced the hardwood, Julius Erving wowed fans with his aerial acrobatics. Dr. J’s hand size—9.5 inches in length and 11.75 inches in span—allowed him to manipulate the ball in ways few others could. His iconic under-the-goal layup against the LA Lakers was a testament to his hand control.
5. Michael Jordan
His Airness, Michael Jordan, revolutionized the game. His complete skill set included an impressive hand size—9.75 inches long and 11.38 inches wide. Jordan’s gravity-defying dunks often featured effortless ball palming, adding artistry to his slams.
6. Kawhi Leonard
Known as “The Claw,” Kawhi Leonard’s defensive prowess and mid-range scoring rely on his sizable mitts. His hand length is 9.75 inches, with a hand span of 11.25 inches. Leonard’s ability to disrupt opponents and control the ball makes him a force on both ends of the court.
7. Noah Vonleh
NBA journeyman Noah Vonleh may not be a household name, but his hand size is noteworthy. His hands measure 9.75 inches in length and 11.75 inches in span. Vonleh’s career trajectory might not have matched his hand dimensions, but his grip on the ball remains impressive.
8. Wilt Chamberlain
Wilt Chamberlain, the legendary center, dominated the court during the 1960s. His hand length measured 9.5 inches, and his hand span stretched to 11.5 inches. Chamberlain’s ability to palm the ball like a grapefruit contributed to his scoring prowess. His 100-point game remains an iconic feat in NBA history.
9. Kevin Durant
Kevin Durant, the scoring machine, combines finesse with impressive hand dimensions. His hand length is 9.75 inches, matched by a hand span of 9.5 inches. Durant’s silky-smooth jump shot and dribbling skills benefit from his sizable mitts.
10. Karl Malone
“The Mailman” Karl Malone delivered buckets with precision. His hand length measured 9.5 inches, complemented by a hand span of 11.25 inches. Malone’s post moves and ability to grip the ball in traffic made him a force for the Utah Jazz.
11. Hakeem Olajuwon
Hakeem “The Dream” Olajuwon’s footwork and shot-blocking prowess were legendary. His hand length stood at 9.5 inches, with a hand span of 11.25 inches. Olajuwon’s ability to swat shots and handle the rock set him apart.
12. Anthony Davis
Anthony Davis, the versatile big man, possesses impressive mitts. His hand length measures 9.5 inches, and his hand span reaches 11 inches. Davis’s agility, shot-blocking, and mid-range game benefit from his hand size.
13. Spud Webb
Now, let’s shift gears to the shortest player on our list. Spud Webb, standing at just 5 feet 7 inches, defied expectations. His hand length—8.5 inches—may not match the giants, but his ball-handling skills were exceptional. Webb’s dunks during the 1986 Slam Dunk Contest remain etched in NBA lore.
14. Manute Bol
Manute Bol, the towering Sudanese center, had hands that seemed to stretch forever. His hand length measured 10.5 inches, while his hand span reached an astonishing 12.5 inches. Bol’s shot-blocking ability was otherworldly, thanks in part to his massive mitts.
15. Yao Ming
Yao Ming, the 7-foot-6-inch Chinese sensation, rounds out our list. His hand length is 9.5 inches, and his hand span extends to 11.5 inches. Yao’s gentle touch around the rim and passing skills were amplified by his hand size.