NBA
National Short Person Day: Who are the shortest players in NBA history?
In 1993, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame inducted Calvin Murphy, who stands 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m), as the shortest NBA player with the award.
With a glance at the list of the shortest players in NBA history, one can find these players were exceptional talents who overcame high challenges to have successful careers in the best basketball league in the world.
Tyrone “Muggsy” Bogues
Muggsy Bogues is an exceptional player who has defied expectations in his career despite his height being one of the shortest in the league. Let’s take a closer look at the key highlights that define his exceptional journey in the NBA.
Bogues made his mark as a point guard, displaying unparalleled skills in orchestrating plays and leading his teams on the court. Standing at a mere 5 feet 3 inches (1.60 meters), he etched his name in the record books as the shortest player ever to play in the NBA, challenging conventional notions of height in professional basketball.
Bogues honed his craft at Wake Forest University, where he gained recognition for his lightning-fast speed and playmaking prowess on the college basketball stage. He was also a varsity member of the wrestling team at Wake Forest, which partly explains his fearlessness on the basketball court.
The Washington Bullets (now Washington Wizards) recognized Bogues’ talent, selecting him as the 12th overall pick in the first round of the 1987 NBA Draft, setting the stage for an extraordinary career.
Bogues had a remarkable NBA journey with notable stints on various teams:
- Washington Bullets (1987–1988)
- Charlotte Hornets (1988–1997)
- Golden State Warriors (1997–1999)
- Toronto Raptors (1999–2001)
During the 1987-88 season in Washington, he played with Manute Bol, the second-tallest NBA player ever, with a height difference of 28 inches (71 cm).
Earl Boykins
Despite his diminutive stature, Earl Boykins, a point guard known for his exceptional speed and scoring prowess, enjoyed a successful career in the NBA. Standing just 5 feet 5 inches (1.65 meters) tall, Boykins’ height was often discussed, but he never let it hold him back.
Boykins’ college career was marked by his impressive scoring ability and skills on the court. He attended Eastern Michigan University, where he left an indelible mark and led his team to several important victories.
In 1998, Boykins entered the NBA as an undrafted free agent, and his outstanding performances on the court marked his debut almost immediately. He played for several teams, including the Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, and Milwaukee Bucks.
Despite his height, Boykins was a fierce competitor known for his aggressive playing style and tenacity. He was also a fan favorite and was celebrated for his impressive performances on the court.
In the end, Earl Boykins had a remarkable NBA career due to his incredible talent and determination and despite his small stature. He left an indelible mark on the NBA and was a force to be reckoned with. Despite his height disadvantage, he dazzled spectators with his exceptional quickness and adept ball-handling skills, scoring against taller opponents.
His role as a spark plug off the bench was key; providing the team energy and scoring when needed brought him respect from his teammates and opponents.
Earl Boykins NBA career teams:
- New Jersey Nets (1998–1999)
- Cleveland Cavaliers (1999–2002)
- Orlando Magic (2002)
- Los Angeles Clippers (2003–2004)
- Golden State Warriors (2004–2007)
- Milwaukee Bucks (2007–2008)
- Charlotte Bobcats (2008–2009)
- Denver Nuggets (2003–2007, 2009–2011)
- Washington Wizards (2011)