Hi, I'm Coach Dave, and basketball's in my blood! Played all my life, coached for twenty years, and I've forgotten more about the game than most folks ever learn. You want to talk hoops, you came to the right place! Shortest players, eh? Now there's a question that gets to the heart of what makes basketball great. It ain't *always* about size, you see...

The NBA has always had its share of giants, but the league has also been graced by some exceptionally talented guards who proved that height isn't everything. Determining the absolute shortest player in NBA history can be tricky, as records and measurements weren't always precise, especially in the league's earlier days.

However, the title of shortest NBA player is generally attributed to Muggsy Bogues, who, at 5 feet 3 inches (1.60 meters), played 14 seasons with remarkable skill and tenacity. To put that into perspective, that's a good head shorter than the average NBA point guard!

Bogues was drafted 12th overall in the 1987 NBA Draft by the Washington Bullets. He possessed incredible ball-handling skills, court vision, and passing ability, which he used to overcome his height disadvantage. He was a gifted playmaker who could thread the needle with his passes, leaving defenders bewildered. He wasn't afraid to drive to the basket either, often using his surprising strength to finish amongst much taller opponents.

Beyond his on-court prowess, Bogues was known for his infectious enthusiasm and leadership qualities. He was a fan favorite wherever he played, proving that heart and determination could outshine any physical limitations.

While Bogues holds the recognized title, there have been other players who came close to his record:

* Earl Boykins, at 5 feet 5 inches (1.65 meters), was another diminutive guard who enjoyed a lengthy NBA career (1999-2012). Known for his incredible strength and fearlessness, Boykins was said to be able to bench press more than twice his weight! He used his low center of gravity to his advantage, making him surprisingly difficult to post up.

* Spud Webb, standing at 5 feet 7 inches (1.70 meters), is perhaps best known for winning the 1986 slam dunk contest against his Atlanta Hawks teammate, Dominique Wilkins, who had allegedly never seen him dunk before. Webb's incredible athleticism and high-flying dunks challenged perceptions about what shorter players could achieve.

These players, alongside Muggsy Bogues, stand as testaments to the fact that greatness in basketball knows no size limits. They serve as an inspiration to aspiring players everywhere, proving that with enough talent, hard work, and determination, anything is possible on the court.

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The NBA's Tallest and Shortest Together. At 7-7, Manute Bol and Gheorghe Muresan are the tallest players in NBA history. At 5-3, Muggsy Bogues is the shortest.read more >>