The Greatest Short Players in NBA History
by Dan Holmes,
April 28, 2025
Grammy and Academy Award winning songwriter Randy Newman famously once sang “short people got nobody”, and “short people got no reason to live”. Well, that’s a bit harsh, but it is true that short people get the um, short end of the stick.
When it comes to the NBA, where height matters, short people are disadvantaged indeed. However, in the more than 75 years of the National Basketball Association, there have been a few little guys who ended up being big guys on their team and in the league.
In this article we turn our eyes downward to examine the best short basketball players in the NBA. These are the famous short basketball players who made fans marvel at their prowess despite being “fun sized”.
Muggsy and Spud: Leapers in Little Bodies
Tyrone “Muggsy” Bogues and Anthony “Spud” Webb stand as titans among the best short basketball players, forever etching their names into the annals of NBA history. Though both defied expectations due to their diminutive stature, their paths and playing styles diverged significantly, creating a fascinating contrast. Bogues, standing at a mere 5’3”, was the shortest player in NBA history, while Webb, at 5’6”, was slightly taller but possessed an explosive vertical leap that captivated audiences.
Bogues’ game was built on tenacity and exceptional ball-handling. He was a defensive pest, known for his ability to steal the ball from much larger opponents, and a masterful playmaker, orchestrating offenses with precision. His career, spanning 14 seasons, showcased his remarkable resilience and basketball IQ. He was a key component of the Charlotte Hornets in the 1990s, where his partnership with Alonzo Mourning and Larry Johnson created a dynamic and exciting team.
Bogues’ ability to distribute the ball and disrupt opposing offenses made him a valuable asset. He proved that even among the small basketball players, a player with exceptional skill and heart could thrive.
Webb, in contrast, was defined by his extraordinary athleticism. His legendary victory in the 1986 Slam Dunk Contest, defeating teammate Dominique Wilkins, cemented his place in basketball lore. That performance, a testament to his incredible leaping ability, became a defining moment for famous short basketball players. While he was a solid point guard, his scoring and dunking prowess were his hallmarks. He was less of a pure playmaker than Bogues, but his ability to elevate and finish around the rim was spectacular.
Both players faced the constant challenge of proving their worth against much taller opponents. They navigated the physical demands of the NBA with intelligence and determination. Bogues’ quote, “Height doesn’t measure heart”, encapsulates the spirit of both players, highlighting the intangible qualities that allowed them to succeed. They were not just little NBA players; they were skilled professionals who earned the respect of their peers and fans alike.
In essence, Bogues was a master of control and finesse, a brilliant floor general who compensated for his lack of height with exceptional skill and intelligence. Webb was a force of nature, a high-flying athlete who defied gravity and captured the imagination of the basketball world. Both individuals, as short people in the NBA, demonstrated that talent and heart could overcome physical limitations, solidifying their legacies as two of the greatest short players ever to grace the NBA hardwood.
Iverson: the NBA’s Small Most Valuable Player
The NBA, a league often dominated by towering figures, has consistently showcased the remarkable talent of smaller players. These individuals, defying conventional expectations, have left indelible marks on the game, proving that heart and skill can triumph over height. From the explosive scoring of Allen Iverson to the masterful playmaking of Chris Paul, these athletes stand as testaments to the power of determination.
Allen Iverson, arguably the most iconic of these players, transcended basketball. At 6’0”, he played with a ferocity and style that resonated with fans worldwide. His scoring ability was unparalleled, and Iverson’s crossover dribble became a signature move. He was one of the most famous short basketball players, and his impact on the game extended beyond the court, influencing fashion and culture.
Earl Boykins, standing at a mere 5’5”, was a cute little force of nature. His speed and agility allowed him to navigate defenses with ease, and his scoring prowess made him a valuable asset off the bench. He was representative of the skill that some of the little NBA players possessed. He proved that even at a significantly smaller stature than most of his peers, that he could carve out a long and successful NBA career.
Calvin Murphy, a Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer, redefined the possibilities for short people in the NBA. At 5’9”, he possessed a remarkable scoring touch and durability, playing 13 seasons and consistently delivering high-scoring performances. His induction into the Hall of Fame cemented his status as one of the best short basketball players of all time.
Nate Robinson, another 5’9” dynamo, captivated audiences with his electrifying athleticism. His three Slam Dunk Contest victories, a feat unmatched in NBA history, highlighted his incredible leaping ability. He was a spark plug off the bench, bringing energy and excitement to every game.
Chris Paul, though considered relatively “tall” among this group at 6’0”, is still shorter than the average NBA player. His masterful playmaking, exceptional basketball IQ, and unwavering competitiveness have made him one of the greatest point guards of his generation. He has consistently led teams to playoff contention, showcasing his ability to control the game’s tempo and elevate his teammates’ performance.
These players, each with their unique strengths and styles, have demonstrated that size is not a prerequisite for success in the NBA. They have inspired countless aspiring athletes, proving that with hard work and dedication, even the smallest players can achieve greatness. With the growing popularity of NBA online sports betting, fans can now engage with these remarkable athletes and their teams in new and exciting ways, adding another layer of excitement to the game.