Height may rule the NBA, but these players turned the game on its head. Standing shorter than their peers, these legends exceeded expectations and redefined what it took to be great. Here are ten players whose stories aren’t just inspiring but will make you rethink everything you knew about height and basketball dominance.
Muggsy Bogues
At 5’3″, Muggsy Bogues is the shortest player in NBA history, yet his impact was anything but small. Known for his incredible ball-handling and quickness, Bogues played 14 seasons in the league and finished with over 6,000 assists. His heart and hustle earned him respect from opponents and fans alike
Earl Boykins
Also, one of the most minor players in NBA history, Earl Boykins, played with an enormous heart and remarkable skill. At 5’5″, he dazzled with his speed and scoring over 13 seasons, frequently outplaying larger opponents. His rise from undrafted to respected veteran highlights his perseverance and greatness.
Spud Webb
Spud Webb, at 5’6″, astounded the world by winning the 1986 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, surpassing players nearly a foot taller. Beyond his iconic dunks, Webb averaged double-digit points for several seasons, peaking at 16 points per game in 1991-92, showing he was far more than a novelty act.
Isaiah Thomas
Isaiah Thomas reached an extraordinary peak in 2016-17, earning All-NBA 2nd Team honors and finishing fifth in MVP voting with 28.9 points and 5.9 assists per game. At 5’9″, he became the only player under six feet to achieve a Top 5 MVP finish before injuries curtailed his career.
Nate Robinson
Nate Robinson, at 5’9″, made history as a three-time NBA Slam Dunk Contest champion (2006, 2009, 2010). Over 11 seasons with eight teams, including the Knicks and Bulls, he scored over 6,800 points, averaging 11 points per game. His explosive energy and relentless spirit captivated fans throughout his career.
Calvin Murphy
A prolific scorer and the shortest Hall of Famer, Calvin Murphy spent his entire career with the Houston Rockets. At 5’9″, Murphy averaged 18 points per game and led in free-throw accuracy twice. Calvin’s fearless play and scoring prowess, including a 25.6-point peak in 1977-78, cemented his legacy.
Avery Johnson
Standing 5’10”, Avery led the San Antonio Spurs to their first NBA Championship in 1999 as their starting point guard. His leadership and ability to manage the game earned him the nickname “The Little General.” Johnson’s clutch performances and basketball IQ were instrumental in guiding the Spurs to the top.
Chris Paul
Despite standing just 6 feet tall, Chris Paul has become one of the NBA’s most outstanding point guards. A Rookie of the Year, multiple-time All-Star, and two-time Olympic gold medalist, his lethal mid-range shot and exceptional playmaking define his game. Paul’s leadership and longevity prove that height is no obstacle to greatness.
Allen Iverson
The 6-foot Allen Iverson transformed the NBA with fearless drives and lightning-quick crossovers. An 11-time All-Star and the 2001 MVP, he led the 76ers to the Finals, where he tormented opponents. Averaging 27.6 points per game, Iverson’s toughness and iconic presence made him a legend against bigger rivals.
Kemba Walker
A four-time All-Star, Kemba Walker was a dynamic point guard with a lethal crossover and quickness that made him tough to defend. At 6’0″, Walker peaked with a 3rd Team All-NBA selection in 2019, leading to a storied college career with an NCAA championship and multiple All-Star selections.
