The Triumphs of the Tiny: Ranking the 10 Shortest Players in NBA History

The NBA is universally recognized as a league of colossal athletes, where the average player towers far above six feet. Consequently, the stories of the shortest NBA player ever—and the small group of athletes who followed in those footsteps—become even more remarkable.

By overcoming a daunting height disadvantage, these players proved that exceptional skill and a huge heart can conquer any physical deficit. This article ranks the 10 smallest players in NBA history, from legends like 5’3″ Muggsy Bogues to modern standouts like 5’8″ Yuki Kawamura. Furthermore, we detail the key achievements that cemented their legacy and allowed them to thrive in a league of giants.

The Top Tier: Legends Under 5’7″

These players hold key NBA height records and truly embody the essence of basketball by defying traditional height expectations.

1. Tyrone “Muggsy” Bogues (5’3”)

The perennial answer to: who is the shortest player in NBA history? Muggsy Bogues’s height was an incredible 5’3”. He is the definitive shortest NBA player of all time. Bogues played 14 professional seasons, showcasing immense longevity. He starred for the Charlotte Hornets, becoming their all-time leader in assists and steals. As a result, his career serves as the ultimate example of success for short basketball players. He even blocked a shot from the 7-foot Patrick Ewing.

2. Earl Boykins (5’5”)

Earl Boykins’s 5’5” NBA career saw him play for ten different teams. He is the second shortest player in league history. Nevertheless, Boykins possessed astounding physical strength. He was the shortest player ever to score 30 points in an NBA game. Amazingly, he overcame the height disparity with pure scoring ability. Earl Boykins’s Washington Wizards tenure highlighted his impactful play.

3. Melvin Hirsch (5’6”)

Melvin Hirsch was a pioneer in the sport’s earliest days. He played for the Boston Celtics in the BAA’s inaugural season (1946-47). Therefore, he held the record as the smallest professional player for decades. His short career marks him as an important original undersized guard in the NBA.

4. Anthony “Spud” Webb (5’7”)

Spud Webb became a global phenomenon with his athleticism. He stood just 5’7” tall. Significantly, Webb is the shortest NBA slam dunk champion ever. He defeated teammate Dominique Wilkins in the 1986 contest. Thus, Spud Webb, the winner of the dunk contest, is one of the most iconic moments in NBA history for unique players. He proved that short players can succeed in the NBA through incredible leaps.

The Resilient 5’7″ and 5’8″ Contributors

This group includes remarkable NBA players under 5’7” who contributed greatly to their teams. Their stories are classic inspirational NBA player stories.

5. Greg Grant (5’7”)

Greg Grant faced significant challenges making it to the professional level. He played for six NBA teams during his career. Grant’s autobiography detailed his journey as one of the shortest players ever to play in the NBA. His energy and skill provided a crucial spark off the bench. Ultimately, the Philadelphia 76ers relied on his tenacious effort.

6. Louis “Red” Klotz (5’7”)

Louis “Red” Klotz achieved the ultimate prize early in his career. He was the shortest player on the 1948 BAA champion Baltimore Bullets. Later, Klotz founded the Washington Generals. That team served as the longtime traveling opponent of the Harlem Globetrotters. As a player and ambassador, he dedicated his life to the sport.

7. Wataru Misaka (5’7”)

Wataru Misaka: His New York Knicks tenure was brief yet historically significant. Importantly, he became the first Asian-American NBA player in 1947. He also served as the league’s first non-Caucasian player. Misaka’s participation shattered a major color barrier in NBA history for the smallest players.

8. Monte Towe (5’7”)

Monte Towe of the NC State Wolfpack helped secure the 1974 NCAA Championship. He later played professionally for the Denver Nuggets. Towe is widely credited with perfecting the alley-oop pass, a major offensive innovation. His small stature did not limit his creativity or impact.

9. Keith “Mister” Jennings (5’7”)

Keith Jennings’s Golden State Warriors career lasted three seasons. He found success despite going undrafted in 1991. Jennings often explained that he “played bigger than [he] was” on the court. He represents the determination of the shortest guards in NBA history.

10. Charlie Criss (5’8”)

Charlie Criss’s Atlanta Hawks tenure began in 1977. He earned his spot after dominating a minor league, becoming a two-time MVP. At 28, Criss was the oldest rookie and smallest active player in the league. Criss’s unwavering perseverance served as a prime example of NBA players who overcame adversity.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Small Stature NBA Players

These incredible athletes proved one fundamental truth. Namely, heart, speed, and skill are measurable metrics for success. They all faced the NBA height disadvantage with fierce competitiveness. Consequently, their careers inspired generations of fans and players. They showed that NBA players shorter than average can achieve legendary status.

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