These players looked at the average height of the NBA. 6 foot 6 inches and said, “No problem”!

Have you ever heard that size counts? Well, such a proverb is used much more in the giants' sport, like basketball. However, certain players have really taken that idea and run with it. Let's talk about the shortest basketball players in history and how they have utilised their height—or lack thereof—to their advantage.

Tyrone “Muggsy” Bogues – 5’3”

Let's start with the great Muggsy Bogues, the man who scoffed at the 6'7" average NBA height. Bogues, who is just 5'3", wasn't present to fill in the stats. Throughout his 14-year NBA career, this phenomenon changed the perception of what it meant to be a "short" player. He demonstrated that heart counts more than height by setting an example for future generations and bringing passion and expertise to the game. And right now? As the head coach of the basketball team at United Faith Christian Academy, he began mentoring young athletes in 2011. Discuss the idea of coming full circle.

Earl Boykins – 5’5” 

Another athlete who seems to have missed the memo on basketball being a tall man's game is Earl Boykins. Boykins, who is 5'5", gained notoriety for his height and exceptional skill. He was the country's second-best scorer throughout his time in college. Give that some thought. He was still dazzling in the professional sphere, taking advantage of his stature to glide past opponents' defences like a ghost. You tell children stories like this one to help them learn about tenacity.

Mel Hirsch – 5’6”

Mel Hirsch may not be well-known, but among those who value basketball history, he is regarded as a trailblazer. Playing for the Boston Celtics, Hirsch illustrated that you don't have to be much taller than the opposition to have an influence. Even though his NBA career was short, it was significant because it proved early on that skill exists in many shapes and sizes. 

A short NBA Player being Blocked in the Rim

Spud Webb – 5’7” 

At 5'7", Spudd Webb not only exceeded the odds by securing a prosperous NBA career, but he went one step further by taking first place in the Slam Dunk competition against Dominique Wilkins. Not only is that amazing, but it's a direct shot to the detractors who ever questioned him due to his height. Webb's agility and an uplifting tale that transcended his physical size characterised his career.

Charlie Criss – 5’8”

Charlie Criss, along with Keith “Mister” Jennings and Monte Towe, all towering at 5’8”, left a significant impact in NBA history, not merely for their height but for their exceptional talent and passion on the hardwood. Criss, especially, epitomised resilience, defying the limitations of his stature to carve out a noteworthy career. His journey from the minor leagues to the NBA shows that sheer determination can help the underdog succeed against all odds!

Nate Robinson – 5’9”

With his 5'9" height, Nate Robinson had an unrivalled intensity on the floor. With his agility and exuberant demeanour, Robinson gained a lot of fans. Every game was a thrilling spectacle because of his aggressive play style and ability to dunk like the best of them. It was proven by Robinson that tremendous skill can come in small packages in a league where height is highly valued.

Calvin Murphy – 5’9”

Calvin Murphy's distinction extends beyond his stature, as he defied odds with remarkable skills, earning the title of the shortest player enshrined in the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. At a mere 5'9", Murphy defied stereotypes, proving that talent and perseverance are more important than physical stature. His enduring legacy inspires countless players who may face similar doubts about their height, serving as a beacon of hope and encouragement in the basketball world.

Some other shorter players with lesser contributions in the league would be names like Keith “Mister” Jennings (5’7”), Damon Stoudamire (5’10”), and Michael Adams (5’10”).