The NBA stands as the top league for professional basketball globally. It has a rich history, marked by the emergence of outstanding players, many towering in height and excelling through physical dominance.
Yet, we have seen a good share of short guys in NBA who’ve carved successful careers, challenging taller opponents with skill and determination.
Questions often arise about these shorter talents: Who holds the record as the shortest NBA player?
What strategies have allowed them to thrive? And how have they influenced the sport’s evolution? This piece explores these queries, highlighting the impact of short players in the NBA.
We’ll delve into the contributions of notable figures and examine the growing acceptance and achievements of players with small stature in the league’s history.
The Shortest NBA Players in History
Muggsy Bogues, the shortest player ever at 5’3″ (1.60m), kicked off his career with the Washington Bullets in 1987, playing 14 seasons. Known as “Mighty Mite,” Bogues excelled as a point guard, showcasing his ability to set up plays, lead, and steal the ball, leading his team to the playoffs three times.
His success came from his speed and agility, earning respect for his effort and team-first attitude. Bogues had a knack for reading the game, often outmaneuvering opponents to assist teammates or score.
Bogues inspired many, proving height isn’t a barrier in the NBA.
Following his path, Calvin Murphy, Earl Boykins, Spud Webb, Nate Robinson (3x Winner of the Slam Dunk Contest), and Isaiah Thomas have also succeeded despite being under 6 feet (1.82m) tall. Their careers affirm that determination and skill can level the playing field in professional basketball.
Current Shortest NBA Players
In the 2024 NBA season, the spotlight shines on players who prove that skill and heart outweigh height in basketball. Among the standout talents are:
- Toronto Raptors: Marquis Nowell – 5’7″ / 1.70m
- Golden State Warriors: Chris Paul, 6’0″ / 1.83m
- Charlotte Hornets: Ish Smith, 6’0″ / 1.83m
- New Orleans Pelicans: Jose Alvarado, 6’0″ / 1.83m
- Houston Rockets: Trevor Hudgins, 6’0″ / 1.83m
- Minnesota Timberwolves: Jordan McLaughlin, 6’0″ / 1.83m
- Philadelphia 76ers: Kyle Lowry, 6’0″ / 1.83m
- Sacramento Kings: Davion Mitchell, 6’0″ / 1.83m
- New York Knicks: Miles McBride – 6’1″ / 1.85m
- Denver Nuggets: Collin Gillespie – 6’1″ / 1.85m
- Milwaukee Bucks: Damian Lillard – 6’2″ / 1.88m
Learn about the players with the smallest shoe size in NBA history here!
Shortest NBA Players in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall Of Fame
The Basketball Hall of Fame celebrates not just the tallest giants of the game but also those who’ve shown that greatness isn’t measured in inches. Among the shortest to leave a towering legacy are:
1. Muggsy Bogues – Standing at 5’3″ (1.60m), Bogues defied the odds with his incredible career from 1987 to 2001, becoming an icon for overcoming physical challenges with skill, speed, and a strategic mind.
2. Earl Boykins – At 5’5″ (1.65m), Boykins showcased that determination and agility could outplay size, making significant contributions across various teams and proving the power of perseverance in basketball.
3. Mel Hirsch – Standing at 5’6″ (1.68m) and although he played in the earlier days of the NBA with the Boston Celtics during the 1946-1947 season, Hirsch demonstrated that heart and hustle speak louder than height, paving the way for future generations.
These athletes exemplify that with talent, determination, and a deep love for the game, players of any stature can achieve greatness and leave an indelible mark on basketball history.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who is the Shortest Person to Dunk in the NBA?
Spud Webb holds the record as the shortest NBA player to execute a dunk, standing at 5’7″. He made history by winning the 1986 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, a feat unmatched by anyone shorter, including Muggsy Bogues.
Was Muggsy Bogues good?
Absolutely. Bogues was celebrated for his rapid speed and defensive prowess, setting Hornets records for both steals and assists. During the 1993-1994 season, he impressively averaged 10.8 points and 10.7 assists per game.
Who is the shortest NBA player to win an NBA Title?
Louis Herman “Red” Klotz is the shortest NBA player to win an NBA title. Standing at 5’7″ (1.70m), Klotz achieved this feat with the Baltimore Bullets in 1948.
Who is the shortest guy in the NBA currently?
As of the latest information, Markquis Nowell is among the shortest players currently in the NBA. Standing at 5’7″ (1.70m), he plays for the Toronto Raptors.
