Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Place ham in a large roasting pan; press cloves into skin at 1- to 2-inch intervals.

Press a thick layer of sugar on skin.

Pour 1 inch of water into the roasting pan; cover tightly with aluminum foil.

Bake in the preheated oven for 4 1/2 to 5 hours. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center away from the bone should read at least 160 degrees F (72 degrees C).

Let ham rest about 20 minutes before carving.