“Like having a paintbrush”: Michael Jordan once gave intriguing analogy to describe advantage of having unusually big hands 

Michael Jordan is one of the greatest basketball players for a varitey of reasons. One of the biggest being his competitive nature. The Chicago Bulls icon was always looking for ways to have an edge on his opponent. From a physical standpoint, some came naturally to him.

During his career, Michael Jordan was known for his athleticism and ability to finish around the rim. Part of why he was able to hit so many tough layups was because he maintained a good grip on the ball. This would not have been possible if he didn't have large hands for his size.

Jordan once detailed the advantage the size of his hands gave him. He compared the added grip to a painter utilizing their paintbrush.

"The grip of grabbing the ball and being able to move the ball," Jordan said. "It's like having a paintbrush for instance. Being able to create."

Michael Jordan said it's rare for players to have the sizeable hands that allows him to grab the ball in this manner. He compared to fellow NBA legend Julius Erving. During his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, he was one of the game's best high-flyers.

"Dr. J did this. If you ever notice Dr. J's hand, his thumb is so far away from his finger which gives him a better grip. He can pick a ball up off the dribble and do anything that he wants to do with it."

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Michael Jordan wasn't the only star to benefit from having big hands

As Michael Jordan mentioned, many other players have benefited from the size of their hands. He used Dr. J as an example, but there are some more recent ones. The most talked about being LA Clippers star Kawhi Leonard.

Like Jordan, Kawhi has large hands for his size. This has helped him on both ends the floor throughout his career. It is most utilized on the defensive end, but his benefits his offensive game as well.

While speaking with JJ Redick on "The Old Man and The Three" podcast, former Toronto Raptors coach Nick Nurse talked about Kawhi's hands. He feels the size gives him an edge because the grip on the ball allows him to get the most out of his mechanics.

"You've seen the size of his hands and the strength in them," Nurse said. "The way he snaps his wrist, he literally gets all his shooting power. A lot of the force is right there in his wrists and fingers."