The top 10 shortest players in NBA history

By Edcel Panganiban February 02, 2024 07:38

The National Basketball Association (NBA) has seen countless talented athletes grace its courts over the years. While height is often considered a significant advantage in basketball, there have been several exceptional players who defied the odds despite their lack of height. Below, we highlight the top 10 shortest players in NBA history.

1. Tyrone "Muggsy" Bogues - 5'3"

Tyrone "Muggsy" Bogues holds the title as the shortest player in NBA history, standing at just 5 feet 3 inches tall. Despite his small stature, Bogues enjoyed a successful career, known for his remarkable speed, agility, and defensive prowess. He played for several teams, most notably the Charlotte Hornets.

2. Earl Boykins - 5'5"

Earl Boykins, at 5 feet 5 inches, made a significant impact during his time in the NBA. Known for his scoring ability and quickness, Boykins played for various teams including the Denver Nuggets and the Milwaukee Bucks.

3. Mel Hirsch - 5'6"

Mel Hirsch, at 5 feet 6 inches, played in the early years of the NBA. Despite his height, he managed to carve out a respectable career playing for teams such as the Providence Steamrollers and the Boston Celtics.

4. Monte Towe - 5'7"

Monte Towe, standing at 5 feet 7 inches, was known for his exceptional ball-handling skills and court vision. He played for the Denver Nuggets and the Spirits of St. Louis in the 1970s.

5. Spud Webb - 5'7"

Spud Webb, despite being just 5 feet 7 inches tall, became famous for winning the NBA Slam Dunk Contest in 1986. His leaping ability and speed made him a force to be reckoned with during his time with the Atlanta Hawks and other teams.

6. Calvin Murphy - 5'9"

Calvin Murphy, at 5 feet 9 inches, was an electrifying scorer known for his quickness and shooting prowess. He spent his entire career with the Houston Rockets and was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 1993.

7. Keith "Mister" Jennings - 5'7"

Keith "Mister" Jennings, standing at 5 feet 7 inches, had a brief but impactful NBA career with the Golden State Warriors. Known for his speed and three-point shooting, Jennings left a lasting impression despite his height.

8. Michael Adams - 5'10"

Michael Adams, at 5 feet 10 inches, was known for his prolific scoring and playmaking abilities. He played for several teams, with notable stints at the Denver Nuggets and the Washington Bullets.

9. Greg Grant - 5'7"

Greg Grant, standing at 5 feet 7 inches, had a solid NBA career primarily coming off the bench as a spark plug for his teams. His speed and defensive tenacity made him a valuable asset during his time with the Phoenix Suns and other teams.

10. Wataru Misaka - 5'7"

Wataru Misaka, at 5 feet 7 inches, holds the distinction of being the first non-white player and the first player of Asian descent to play in the NBA. Despite facing racial prejudice, Misaka made history with the New York Knicks in the 1947-1948 season.

these players have proven that height is not the sole determinant of success in the NBA. Their skill, determination, and perseverance have left an indelible mark on the league, inspiring future generations of basketball players to overcome perceived limitations and excel on the court.