Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world, and it’s no surprise that players come in all shapes and sizes. From the towering heights of the tallest player to the short stature of the shortest, basketball has it all. But have you ever wondered just how short the shortest basketball player is? In this article, we’ll explore the answer to this question and delve into the life of the shortest player in basketball history.
The Shortest Basketball Player in History
The shortest basketball player in history is 5’3” guard Muggsy Bogues. Bogues played for four NBA teams throughout his 14-year career, and he is the shortest player in NBA history. Bogues was drafted in 1987 by the Washington Bullets and went on to play for the Charlotte Hornets, Golden State Warriors, and Toronto Raptors.
Muggsy Bogues’ Career
Despite his small stature, Bogues was an effective player in the NBA. He was known for his fast speed and agility, and he was a capable defender. Bogues averaged 7.7 points and 7.6 assists per game during his career and led the NBA in steals during the 1994-95 season. He also led the Charlotte Hornets in assists for three consecutive seasons from 1994 to 1997.
Muggsy Bogues’ Height
As previously mentioned, Muggsy Bogues is the shortest player in NBA history, standing at a mere 5’3”. To put that into perspective, he is shorter than the average height of most NBA players, which is 6’7”.
Bogues’ Influence on Basketball
Bogues’ career has had a lasting impact on basketball. Despite his small stature, he was able to compete at the highest level and prove that size does not always determine success. His story has served as an inspiration to many, and he is often cited as a role model for young players.
The Next Shortest NBA Players
Though Muggsy Bogues is the shortest player in NBA history, there have been a few other players who have come close. Here is a list of the next shortest NBA players:
- Spud Webb – 5’7”
- Earl Boykins – 5’5”
- Calvin Murphy – 5’9”
- Nate Robinson – 5’9”
- Isaiah Thomas – 5’9”
The Shortest Players in the WNBA
The WNBA has several players that are shorter than the average NBA player. Here is a list of the shortest players in the WNBA:
- Ruthy Hebard – 5’11”
- Brittney Griner – 6’8”
- Sue Bird – 5’9”
- Skylar Diggins-Smith – 5’7”
- Gabby Williams – 5’11”
The Shortest Players in the NCAA
The NCAA also features several players who are under the average height of an NBA player. Here is a list of the shortest players in the NCAA:
- Oshae Brissett – 6’6”
- Ja Morant – 6’3”
- Luke Maye – 6’8”
- Ethan Happ – 6’9”
- Jalen Brunson – 6’2”
The Shortest Professional Player
The shortest professional basketball player is 5’2” guard Tyrone “Muggsy” Bogues. He is the shortest professional basketball player ever and holds the record for the shortest player in NBA history.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the shortest basketball player in history is Muggsy Bogues, who stands at a mere 5’3”. Despite his small stature, Bogues was an effective player in the NBA and is often cited as a role model for young players. There are several other players, both in the NBA and in other professional leagues, who are shorter than the average NBA player. However, none of them come close to matching the height of Muggsy Bogues, who holds the record for the shortest player in basketball history.