Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 13-inch Achilles Trumps Both LeBron James and Michael Jordan’s

Giannis Antetokounmpo established himself amongst the pantheon of NBA legends that only a few could ever dream of entering. He did so officially after winning the Milwaukee Bucks a championship in 2021, 50 years after Kareem Abdul-Jabbar did the same. 

Of course, to go along with a title and the Finals MVP, Giannis has also won 2 regular season MVPs along with Defensive Player of the Year honors. Not to mention the fact that he’s had countless All-Star and All-NBA selections to his name. 

Every single one of his accolades can be attributed to the fact that he’s a freak of nature from a physicality standpoint. Whether it’s his ability to cross full court in a matter of 3 dribbles or his leaping ability, Antetokounmpo lives up to his nickname of ‘Greek Freak’.

Also read: Ja Morant and Memphis Grizzlies Shamelessly Mock Giannis Antetokounmpo and Co. In the Middle of the Game

Giannis Antetokounmpo having a bigger Achilles tendon has been beneficial for him 

Perhaps the injury that is most devastating for players that continuously use their athleticism to their advantage is an Achilles tear. Both these and tears at the ACL are ones that truly chip away at one’s athleticism, both vertically and off the burst. 

Luckily for Giannis Antetokounmpo, as he closes in on a decade in the NBA, he’s never had to deal with any major injuries despite his physical style of play. This is in large parts due to the fact that his Achilles tendon is twice as large as the average man, coming in at just over 13 inches long. 

This is reportedly longer than both Michael Jordan and LeBron James’s Achilles tendons as well. This tendon is what makes your foot leaves the ground upon flexion of the calf muscles without it, your burst off the ground would be severely dampened.

Does Giannis Antetokounmpo just run and jump? 

James Harden and Giannis Antetokounmpo seemingly had ‘beef’ with one another when the former claimed he wishes he was taller just so he could run and dunk on people, claiming it took no skill at all. 

Well, while Giannis Antetokounmpo certainly does use his large Achilles to his advantage, it’s very clear from a simple eye test that he is an incredibly skilled NBA superstar. Everything from his defensive instincts and timing to his ability to maneuver around the floor at his size. 

Sure, if he were 6’6 like James Harden, his abilities wouldn’t be as effective but a man who has the drive to accomplish what he accomplished would find different ways to be effective regardless of what his height was.

Also read: “You’re A Role Player, Not an Artist, Serge Ibaka!”: Giannis Antetokounmpo Delivers Death Blow to His Teammates’ Cooking Career