Don’t let their size fool you! While basketball requires giants and giants of players, these pint-sized powerhouses proved that size isn’t everything. Let’s take a look at seven of the shortest NBA players of all time and how they’ve completely defied the odds in the game in play (and size!).
7 Shortest NBA Players: Little Giants in Basketball
1) Muggsy Bogues – 5 ft. 3
Muggsy Bogues, known to be one of the shortest NBA players (and we mean shortest) at a mere 5’3”, was drafted by the Washington Bullets. Known for his incredible ball-handling skills and a 44-inch vertical, he could dribble with his knuckles touching the floor. Despite his talent, he struggled to find his footing in Washington.
A trade to the Charlotte Hornets ignited his career. He became a fan favorite, leading the team to their first playoff appearance. Injuries briefly sidelined him, but he returned stronger than ever, leading the league in assist-to-turnover ratio. Though his career eventually took him to the Golden State Warriors, Muggsy left an enduring legacy as the Hornets’ all-time leader in steals and assists.
2) Earl Boykins – 5 ft. 5
Earl Boykins, a 5’5” point guard, proved that size isn’t everything. Undrafted but determined, he made his mark in the NBA with teams like the Denver Nuggets, Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte Bobcats, and Washington Wizards. His 32-point game in 2004 showcased his scoring prowess, making him one of the league’s most surprising talents despite being one of the shortest NBA players.
3) Spud Webb – 5 ft. 6
Spud Webb, a 5’6” point guard, defied gravity and expectations as one of the shortest NBA players. His gravity-defying dunks, especially his iconic 1986 Slam Dunk Contest performance, shocked the basketball world. Despite his size, Webb’s skill and determination earned him a 12-year NBA career with teams like the Atlanta Hawks, Sacramento Kings, and Minnesota Timberwolves. Now, he’s inspiring the next generation of players as president of basketball operations for the Texas Legends.
4) Keith Jennings – 5 ft. 7
Keith “Mister” Jennings, a 5’7” dynamo, was a standout player despite being one of the shortest NBA players. Undrafted in 1991, he burst onto the scene with the Golden State Warriors. His quickness, scoring touch, and crafty playmaking skills made him a fan favorite. In a legendary performance, he exploded for 23 points and 10 assists, proving that size isn’t everything.
After his NBA career, Jennings continued to make his mark on the basketball world. He transitioned into coaching, leading teams at various levels, from high school to college. In 2023, he returned to his roots, taking the helm as head coach at his alma mater, Culpeper County High School.
5) Monte Towe – 5 ft. 7
Monte Towe is a celebrated basketball coach and former player, known as one of the shortest NBA players in history at just 5’7″. A legendary point guard at NC State, he led the Wolfpack to the 1974 NCAA Championship. Towe’s talents earned him a spot in the NBA, where he played for the Denver Nuggets and even made the 1976 ABA All-Star Game.
After his playing days, Towe’s passion for the game led him to a successful coaching career. He mentored players at top-tier programs like NC State and Florida, and even coached internationally, leading Marinos B.B.C. to a Venezuelan League title. Today, Towe continues to shape young minds as a coach at Oak Hall School.
6) Greg Grant – 5 ft. 7
Greg Grant, a 5’7″ basketball marvel, defied expectations despite being one of the shortest NBA players of all time. Discovered on a Trenton playground, Grant’s journey from fish market worker to Division III scoring sensation captivated the league. Drafted by the Phoenix Suns in 1989, he embarked on a six-year NBA career, showcasing his skills with multiple teams.
After retiring, Grant returned to his roots, founding a sports academy in Trenton and taking the reins as head coach at Trenton Central High School. He transformed the program, leading the team to a historic 27-3 season and ensuring a 100% graduation rate for his players.
7) Markquis Nowell – 5 ft. 7
Markquis Nowell, a 5’7” point guard with a heart of a giant, is redefining the limits of size in basketball. The Kansas State star shattered records in the 2023 NCAA Tournament as one of the shortest NBA players, dishing out a mind-boggling 19 assists in a single game.
Undrafted in 2023, Nowell didn’t let that deter him. He dazzled in the NBA Summer League with the Toronto Raptors, showcasing his elite playmaking skills. Now, he’s taking his talents to the G League with the Rio Grande Valley Vipers, proving that size doesn’t matter when you’ve got skill and determination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is currently the shortest NBA player?
In the present NBA, Yuki Kawamura is the shortest NBA player, standing at 5’8″ (173 cm).
Can a 5’7″ person play in the NBA?
Yes! If you think you’re too short than the shortest NBA players out there, then think again. While height can be an advantage, it’s not a prerequisite. With raw talent and an unyielding spirit, even the smallest players can dominate the court.
Who is the smallest NBA player of all time?
From a height of just 5’3″, Muggsy Bogues is the shortest NBA player of all time – defying gravity and expectations. Mocked and underestimated, he rose from the ashes of adversity. A bullet couldn’t shatter his dreams, nor could the jeers of the crowd. The NBA’s smallest giant, he proved that size isn’t everything.
