As of the latest NBA season, Markquis Nowell of the Toronto Raptors is the shortest active NBA player, standing at 5-foot-8. Nowell joined the NBA after a successful college career and has been known for his quickness, agility, and playmaking ability.
Shortest NBA Player of All Time
The title of the shortest NBA player of all time goes to Muggsy Bogues, who stood at just 5-foot-3. Bogues played from 1987 to 2001 and is renowned for his incredible defensive skills and playmaking ability despite his height. He is a beloved figure in NBA history and remains an inspiration to many for his remarkable achievements on the court.
Shortest Players in NBA History
Here is a list of the shortest players who have played in the NBA, all standing at 5-foot-7 or shorter:
- Muggsy Bogues (1987-2001): 5-foot-3
- Earl Boykins (1998-2012): 5-foot-5
- Spud Webb (1985-1996, 1997-1998): 5-foot-6
- Mel Hirsh (1946): 5-foot-6
- Greg Grant (1989-1996): 5-foot-7
- Keith Jennings (1992-1995): 5-foot-7
- Herm “Red” Klotz (1948): 5-foot-7
- Wat Misaka (1948): 5-foot-7
- Monte Towe (1975-77): 5-foot-7
Notable Short Players in NBA History
Several short players have made significant impacts in the NBA, showcasing that height isn’t the only factor in achieving greatness in basketball:
Calvin Murphy: At 5-foot-9, he is the shortest player inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
Allen Iverson: At 6-foot even, he is the shortest player to be named league MVP.
Isiah Thomas: At 6-foot-1, he led the Detroit Pistons to back-to-back NBA titles.
Isaiah Thomas: At 5-foot-9, he earned the nickname “King in the Fourth” for his clutch performances with the Boston Celtics.
Nate Robinson: At 5-foot-9, he won three NBA Dunk Contests.
Spud Webb: At 5-foot-6, he won the 1986 Slam Dunk Contest and had a 12-season NBA career.
The Iconic Photo
Muggsy Bogues’ height was famously highlighted in a photograph with teammate Manute Bol, who was 7-foot-7. The photo perfectly captured the extraordinary height difference and remains a memorable image in NBA history.
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