Kentucky Bigs Started Using Boxing Gloves to Improve Physicality in Practice: 'It Gave Us Energy Today'

Kentucky basketball has embraced an unconventional training method to bolster its physicality: boxing gloves. The practice, initiated by assistant coach Mikhail McLean, involves players literally punching boxing gloves as part of their warm-up routine, and has coincided with a recent surge in the team’s performance.

A New Approach to Toughness

The unusual technique began before Kentucky’s January 31st game against Arkansas, initially reserved for the team’s big men. According to Kentucky forward Andrija Jelavic, the routine is now the first thing players do upon entering the gym. It consists of punching sparring gloves five times, followed by layups after going through seven GAs holding punching equipment.

Did You Know? The boxing glove routine started before Kentucky’s game against Arkansas on January 31.

Jelavic noted that the practice has yielded positive results, contributing to Kentucky’s winning seven of their last eight games as of Wednesday’s 94-78 victory over Oklahoma. He was interrupted during his postgame interview following the Oklahoma win by Coach McLean, who urged him to “Tell them about the boxing gloves.”

The Impact on the Court

The emphasis on physicality isn’t limited to pregame routines. Jelavic explained that the training aims to encourage players to make contact and draw fouls, even if those calls aren’t immediately recognised by referees. He believes this approach has energized the team, recalling its impact during both the Arkansas and Oklahoma games.

Expert Insight: The implementation of a physical conditioning element like boxing glove drills suggests a deliberate coaching strategy to instill a more aggressive and assertive mindset in the players, potentially influencing their on-court behavior and resilience.

Jelavic, now a member of the starting lineup, is actively seeking opportunities to apply these lessons during games. He feels that making contact, even if it results in a foul, can provide a significant boost to the team’s momentum.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the “boxing gloves” in the context of Kentucky basketball?

The “boxing gloves” refer to a pregame and practice routine where Kentucky players punch boxing gloves held by assistant coach Mikhail McLean, intended to build physicality.

When did Kentucky begin using the boxing glove routine?

The routine began before Kentucky’s game against Arkansas on January 31.

Who initiated the boxing glove routine?

Assistant coach Mikhail McLean initiated the boxing glove routine.

Will this unconventional training method continue to be a key component of Kentucky’s preparation, and how might it influence their performance as the season progresses?

Kentucky Bigs Started Using Boxing Gloves to Improve Physicality in Practice: ‘It Gave Us Energy Today’