Michael Jordan used to to stick his tongue out during NBA games, and the reason why is simpler than you might think.

As the greatest basketball player in history, every single element of Michael Jordan’s game has been debated, celebrated, analysed and scrutinised.

The former Chicago Bulls star dazzled the NBA for 15 years, winning six NBA Championships and earning countless personal accolades.

The success of Jordan’s partnership with Nike took his status and global influence to the next level, making him a true sporting and cultural icon.

But while Jordan was the epitome of cool while he was dunking the ball or pulling off insane reverse layups, there was one thing that fans found a little odd.

Over the years, NBA fans noticed that Jordan often played with his tongue sticking out.

It’s an inconsequential detail in the grand scheme of things, but once fans noticed they couldn’t stop noticing it.

In 1990, during an appearances on The Arsenio Hall Show, Jordan was asked why he had a habit of sticking his tongue out during games.

“Well, it’s an unconscious habit that I picked up from my father,” the Chicago Bulls legend explained.

Michael Jordan playing against a young Kobe Bryant. Image: Getty
“Being a little kid and you’re watching your father work, he used to stick his tongue out, and I took it up and made it a habit.

“And now I can’t stop, I tried to stop, I tried playing with a mouthpiece in my mouth — just didn’t work, it didn’t feel natural.”

Michael Jordan shared a close bond with his father, and on several occasions credited him with being his biggest support system.

It’s not surprising then that a young Jordan picked up the habit from his father and struggled to shake it off despite becoming one of the most famous athletes on the planet.