The Shortest Players in NBA History

bet365 News Team Updated: Sep 24 2026 15:17

Here is a look at some of the shortest players who have ever stepped onto an NBA court.

While the NBA is famously a league of giants, it has also been a stage for players who defied the odds with their comparatively small stature. Throughout the league's history, several athletes under 5'7" have not only competed but have also carved out memorable careers in the world's premier basketball competition.

Shortest Players in NBA History

1. Muggsy Bogues – 5'3"

Muggsy Bogues holds the official title of the shortest player in NBA history. Standing at just 5'3", the point guard was selected 12th overall by the Washington Bullets in the 1987 Draft and went on to play for 14 seasons. He is best remembered for his time with the Charlotte Hornets, where he became one of the most iconic players in franchise history.

2. Earl Boykins – 5'5"

At 5'5", Earl Boykins enjoyed a 13-season career in the NBA. Despite his height, the point guard was known for his incredible speed and scoring ability. Boykins played for several teams, including the Denver Nuggets, Milwaukee Bucks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Orlando Magic.

3. Mel Hirsch – 5'6"

Mel Hirsch had a brief but notable NBA career. The 5'6" point guard played in just 13 games for the Boston Celtics during the 1946-47 season, back when the league was still known as the Basketball Association of America (BAA).

4. Spud Webb – 5'6"

Also standing at 5'6", Spud Webb built an impressive 12-season NBA career. The dynamic point guard became a household name for his extraordinary leaping ability, famously winning the 1986 Slam Dunk Contest against much taller competitors.

5. Greg Grant – 5'7"

Greg Grant is another of the shortest players in league history, measuring approximately 5'7". The point guard played for several teams during his time in the NBA, appearing in over 200 career games.

6. Isaiah Thomas – 5'9"

One of the most well-known players on this list, Isaiah Thomas made a huge impact despite being 5'9". The point guard's career peaked during his time with the Boston Celtics. In the 2016-17 season, he delivered a career-best performance, earning an All-Star selection and finishing as one of the NBA's top scorers.

7. Ty Lawson – 5'11"

Listed by the NBA at 5'11", Ty Lawson is another smaller guard who had a significant career. He played for teams such as the Denver Nuggets, Houston Rockets, and Sacramento Kings.

8. Isaiah Canaan – 6'0"

Standing at 6'0", Isaiah Canaan has played for numerous NBA teams. Selected in the 2013 Draft, the guard has had stints with the Houston Rockets, Philadelphia 76ers, Chicago Bulls, Phoenix Suns, and Minnesota Timberwolves, among others.

9. J.J. Barea – 6'0"

J.J. Barea, also 6'0", built a distinguished career, primarily with the Dallas Mavericks. The crafty point guard was a key member of the 2011 NBA championship team and was celebrated for his ability to drive and create plays against much larger opponents.

10. Chris Paul – 6'0"

Widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards of his generation, Chris Paul also stands among the shorter players in recent NBA history. At 6'0", he has forged a legendary career defined by elite playmaking, game control, and numerous All-NBA and All-Star selections, in addition to being a two-time Olympic gold medalist.