The Tallest And Shortest Player On Every NBA Team In 2024-25

Size matters in basketball and that will always be the case. Some of the league’s biggest stars have made a living off their height advantage while others have found ways to overcome their lack of extreme height. Short players have built careers defying expectations, proving that heart, skill, and IQ can outweigh a few missing inches.

The 2024-25 season is no different. For die-hard fans or those who just love the contrast of giants and speedsters, here’s a look at the tallest and shortest player on each NBA squad in 2024-25.

Atlanta Hawks

Tallest Player: Mouhamed Gueye – 6’11”

Gueye is still a project, but his length and mobility give the Atlanta Hawks a big man with upside. He’s got the tools to be a rim protector and lob threat, but he’ll need to bulk up and refine his skills to make a serious impact. The 22-year-old’s development will be key for the Hawks, especially if they want to add some defensive versatility to their frontcourt.

Shortest Player: Trae Young – 6’1”

What he lacks in height, Trae Young makes up for with deep shooting range and elite playmaking. He’s the engine of the Hawks’ offense, dictating pace and putting up big numbers—despite often being the smallest guy on the court. While his defense remains a liability, there is no doubt Young is one of the best scorers and playmakers in the NBA. 

Boston Celtics

Tallest Player: Luke Kornet, Kristaps Porzingis – 7’2”

Kristpas Porzingis is a unicorn in every sense—when healthy, he stretches the floor, protects the rim, and gives the Celtics a unique weapon. Kornet, meanwhile, brings solid size off the bench but won’t have nearly the same impact. If Porzingis can stay on the floor, his presence could be the X-factor that pushes Boston over the top in their hunt for back-to-back titles. 

Shortest Player: Payton Pritchard – 6’1”

Pritchard is all about energy. He’s a spark plug off the bench who can shoot the lights out and play bigger than his size. His confidence and toughness make him a perfect fit in Boston’s hard-nosed system, and he’s the leading contender for Sixth Man of the Year despite being 6’1″.

Brooklyn Nets

Tallest Player: Nic Claxton, Day’Ron Sharpe – 6’11”

Nic Claxton has developed into one of the league’s best defensive bigs, using his length and agility to guard multiple positions. Sharpe provides depth and muscle in the paint but has yet to carve out a consistent role. If the Nets want to take the next step, they’ll need Claxton to continue evolving on both ends of the floor, particularly as a finisher and free-throw shooter.

Shortest Player: De’Anthony Melton – 6’2”

Melton may not be the shortest guard in the league, but his defensive tenacity stands out. He thrives as a disruptive perimeter defender and an efficient three-point shooter, making him a valuable piece for the Nets. His ability to play both guard spots and contribute on both ends will be crucial for Brooklyn’s rotation.

Charlotte Hornets

Tallest Player: Mark Williams, Jusuf Nurkic – 7’0”

Mark Williams might not be Charlotte’s long-term answer at center since they tried to trade him, but he is still an imposing figure in the paint. Nurkic brings veteran toughness, but health and mobility are always concerns. If Williams continues developing his offensive game, he could become one of the more underrated young bigs in the league.

Shortest Player: Seth Curry – 6’1”

The sharpshooting Curry brother continues to prove his worth with his ability to stretch the floor. He’s not just a shooter—he’s a steady offensive piece who knows how to play within a system. While he’s not a defensive stopper, his shooting efficiency makes him a valuable asset in any rotation.

Chicago Bulls

Tallest Player: Zach Collins – 6’11”

Zach Collins is a solid two-way big for the Chicago Bulls, capable of stretching the floor while providing interior defense. Injuries slowed his early career, but he’s found his rhythm as a reliable frontcourt piece. His ability to knock down threes and protect the rim gives the Bulls a modern big man to work with.

Shortest Player: Tre Jones, Jevon Carter – 6’1”

Jones is a high-IQ playmaker who values efficiency, while Carter is a defensive pest who thrives on intensity. Both guards play with a chip on their shoulders, making up for their lack of size with grit. Chicago will lean on their toughness and leadership to stabilize the backcourt rotation.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Tallest Player: Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley – 6’11”

Jarrett Allen is a shot-blocking, rim-running force, anchoring the Cleveland Cavaliers’ defense with his physicality. Evan Mobley, meanwhile, is a unicorn-in-the-making, with the versatility to guard multiple positions and an evolving offensive game. Together, they form one of the most imposing defensive frontcourts in the NBA and that is why the team has won 15 straight games. 

Shortest Player: Darius Garland – 6’1”

Darius Garland’s elite handles and deep shooting ability make him a nightmare for defenders despite his size. He thrives in pick-and-roll situations, using his quickness and vision to create for himself and others. As he continues to grow as a leader, he remains a key part of Cleveland’s future.

Dallas Mavericks

Tallest Player: Dereck Lively II – 7’1”

Lively has already shown flashes of being an elite rim protector, using his length to alter shots and finish lobs. His offensive game is still a work in progress, but playing alongside Kyrie Irving and Anthony Davis next season will give him plenty of easy opportunities. If he can expand his skill set, he could become one of the best defensive centers in the league.

Shortest Player: Kyrie Irving – 6’2”

Kyrie Irving’s ability to score from anywhere on the court is second to none, and his handles remain the best in the NBA. Despite being undersized for a shooting guard role, his finishing ability at the rim is elite. As long as he stays locked in, he’s one of the most unstoppable offensive players in the game’s history.

Denver Nuggets

Tallest Player: Nikola Jokic, DeAndre Jordan – 6’11”

Nikola Jokic may not be a true 7-footer, but he plays like one, dominating with skill and IQ rather than athleticism. Jordan, meanwhile, provides veteran leadership and occasional rebounding bursts off the bench. With Jokic running the show, the Nuggets‘ size advantage comes from his ability to dictate the game like no other center.

Shortest Player: Jalen Pickett, Russell Westbrook, Jamal Murray – 6’4”

Jamal Murray may not be the shortest in traditional NBA terms, but his elite shot-making makes up for any lack of height. Westbrook brings relentless energy and physicality despite being past his prime. Pickett is still finding his footing, but his ability to play physically despite his shorter stature could earn him a role.

Detroit Pistons

Tallest Player: Jalen Duren – 6’10”

Jalen Duren is an old-school big man, using his strength to dominate the glass and protect the rim. While his offensive game remains raw, his physicality and rebounding make him a key piece for Detroit’s rebuild. If he can develop a more consistent offensive arsenal, he could be a foundational piece for the Pistons.

Shortest Player: Dennis Schroder – 6’1”

Schroder brings speed, craftiness, and a veteran presence to Detroit’s young backcourt. His ability to break down defenses off the dribble and get into the lane is valuable. If he embraces a leadership role and finally finds a long-term home, he could help accelerate the Pistons’ development.

Golden State Warriors

Tallest Player: Quinten Post – 7’0”

Post has proven to be very capable at the NBA level, but his ability to stretch the floor as a big gives Golden State an interesting piece. His mobility and shooting could fit well in the Warriors’ system if he finds his niche. Whether he can earn consistent minutes on a veteran-heavy team remains to be seen.

Shortest Player: Gary Payton II, Stephen Curry – 6’2”

Stephen Curry has shattered every limitation placed on smaller guards, redefining the game with his shooting and off-ball movement. Payton, meanwhile, is an elite defender, using his quick hands and leaping ability to impact the game despite his size. Together, they show that size isn’t everything—skill and toughness can level the playing field.

Houston Rockets

Tallest Player: Alperen Sengun, Steven Adams, Jabari Smith Jr., Jock Landale – 6’11”

Alperen Sengun is the future of Houston’s frontcourt, blending skill, footwork, and passing like a throwback big. Adams brings physicality and leadership, while Smith’s versatility as a stretch big gives the Rockets lineup flexibility. Having this much size gives Houston an edge on the boards and in rim protection.

Shortest Player: Fred VanVleet, Aaron Holiday – 6’0”

VanVleet is proof that height doesn’t define impact, as his toughness and leadership elevate the Rockets’ young roster. Holiday provides a steady backup option with his defensive intensity and reliable shooting. Houston’s backcourt may lack size, but their experience and tenacity make up for it.

Indiana Pacers

Tallest Player: Myles Turner – 6’11”

Myles Turner has long been one of the best shot-blockers in the NBA, anchoring Indiana’s defense with his elite rim protection. Beyond his defensive presence, he’s expanded his offensive game, becoming a legitimate three-point threat. His ability to stretch the floor while protecting the rim makes him one of the most valuable big men in the league.

Shortest Player: T.J. McConnell – 6’1”

McConnell plays with relentless energy, making up for his lack of size with hustle and high basketball IQ. He’s a pesky defender who thrives on disrupting opposing ball handlers and forcing turnovers. His leadership and steady play off the bench continue to be an underrated asset for the Pacers.

Los Angeles Clippers

Tallest Player: Ivica Zubac – 7’0”

Ivica Zubac is a rock-solid traditional center, excelling as a rebounder, finisher, and interior defender. He isn’t flashy, but his presence in the paint provides the Clippers with much-needed stability. As long as he controls the glass and protects the rim, his role on the team remains vital.

Shortest Player: Patty Mills – 6’2”

Mills may not have the burst he once did, but his veteran experience and sharpshooting still hold value. He’s been a reliable spark plug off the bench throughout his career, capable of getting hot in a hurry. His leadership, especially in the locker room, makes him an invaluable presence for a championship-aspiring team.

Los Angeles Lakers

Tallest Player: Jaxson Hayes, Alex Len – 7’0”

Hayes is an explosive athlete who thrives as a lob threat and rim protector, but he’s still refining his overall game. Len, on the other hand, brings a more traditional big-man skill set, offering size and rebounding off the bench. While neither is a dominant presence, their length gives the Lakers size in the frontcourt.

Shortest Player: Bronny James – 6’2”

Bronny James’ presence on the Lakers is one of the biggest storylines of the season, playing alongside his legendary father. While still raw as a prospect, he brings defensive intensity and a high basketball IQ. His development will be closely watched, but he has all the tools to carve out his own NBA path.

Memphis Grizzlies

Tallest Player: Zach Edey – 7’4”

Zach Edey enters the NBA as a towering force, using his overwhelming size to dominate inside. While questions remain about his mobility and ability to adapt to the speed of the pro game, his rebounding and shot-blocking are undeniable strengths. If he can develop a reliable offensive game, he could become a problem for opposing teams.

Shortest Player: Scottie Pippen Jr. – 6’1”

Pippen Jr. is still fighting for a consistent NBA role, but his playmaking and scoring instincts give him a chance. His last name brings high expectations, but he’s determined to prove himself on his own merits. If he can improve his efficiency, he could carve out a valuable role in the Grizzlies‘ rotation.

Miami Heat

Tallest Player: Kel’el Ware – 7’0”

Ware is an intriguing young big man with a blend of size, athleticism, and shooting touch. His defensive presence and ability to run the floor could make him a great fit in the Miami Heat’s system. If he buys into Heat Culture, he could develop into a key part of their future.

Shortest Player: Terry Rozier – 6’1”

Rozier is a fearless scorer, capable of lighting up defenses with his quick first step and deep shooting range. He plays with an edge, never backing down from a challenge, which fits perfectly with Miami’s hard-nosed mentality. Whether starting or coming off the bench, he’s a scoring threat every time he touches the ball.

Milwaukee Bucks

Tallest Player: Brook Lopez – 7’1”

Brook Lopez has transformed from a low-post scorer into one of the best defensive bigs and stretch shooters in the NBA. His ability to block shots while spacing the floor is a huge asset for Milwaukee’s system. Even in his late 30s, he remains a crucial piece of the Bucks‘ championship aspirations.

Shortest Player: Damian Lillard – 6’2”

Damian Lillard’s range is practically limitless, and his clutch gene is as strong as ever. Despite his size, he thrives as one of the league’s best scorers, able to take over games single-handedly. With a championship now in sight, he’s more motivated than ever to cement his legacy.

Minnesota Timberwolves

Tallest Player: Rudy Gobert – 7’1”

Rudy Gobert is a defensive anchor, winning multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards with his elite shot-blocking and rebounding. Though his offensive limitations are well-known, his presence in the paint completely changes how teams attack the Wolves. As long as he’s patrolling the middle, the Timberwolves will have a top-tier defense.

Shortest Player: Mike Conley – 6’0”

Conley may not have the same quickness he once did, but his leadership and poise keep Minnesota’s offense steady. He’s still an efficient shooter and a crafty playmaker who knows how to run a team. His experience will be critical as the Timberwolves try to make a deep playoff run.

New Orleans Pelicans

Tallest Player: Mo Bamba – 7’0”

Bamba’s length and shot-blocking ability give the Pelicans a defensive weapon in the paint. While he hasn’t fully lived up to his lottery-pick expectations, his ability to stretch the floor makes him a unique big. 

Shortest Player: Jose Alvarado – 6’0”

Alvarado is an absolute pest on defense, constantly hounding opposing guards and forcing mistakes. He’s become a fan favorite thanks to his relentless energy and sneaky steals. Though undersized, his confidence and toughness allow him to punch above his weight class.

New York Knicks

Tallest Player: Karl-Anthony Towns, Mitchell Robinson, Ariel Hukporti – 7’0”

Karl-Anthont Towns brings elite shooting for a big man, making him one of the most versatile offensive centers in the league. Robinson thrives as a shot-blocker and rebounder, providing a defensive backbone for the Knicks. Hukporti is more of an unknown, but his raw physical tools give New York another potential weapon in the paint.

Shortest Player: Tyler Kolek – 6’1”

Kolek is a crafty playmaker with a high basketball IQ, capable of running an offense smoothly. His ability to create shots for teammates will be crucial in earning minutes in the rotation. If he can adjust to the NBA’s pace, he could become a reliable floor general for New York.

Oklahoma City Thunder

Tallest Player: Chet Holmgren – 7’1”

Chet Holmgren is redefining what it means to be a modern big man with his elite shot-blocking, ball-handling, and three-point shooting. His unique blend of skills allows him to function as both a defensive anchor and an offensive weapon. If he continues to develop physically, he has the potential to be a generational talent.

Shortest Player: Cason Wallace, Luguentz Dort – 6’4”

Cason Wallace is a gritty, defensive-minded guard who takes pride in locking down opposing scorers. His offensive game is still a work in progress, but his hustle and intensity fit perfectly in OKC’s culture. Dort, on the other hand, has already established himself as an elite perimeter defender and the versatility of the Thunder’s roster is why the team is first in the West. 

Orlando Magic

Tallest Player: Goga Bitadze, Moritz Wagner – 6’11”

Bitadze is a traditional big man with a physical presence in the paint, bringing toughness and rim protection. While he doesn’t stretch the floor much, his ability to control the boards and protect the rim makes him a valuable asset. Wagner, meanwhile, is a high-energy big who can shoot from deep and plays with an infectious edge.

Shortest Player: Cory Joseph, Cole Anthony – 6’2”

Joseph is a veteran guard who brings stability and leadership to the locker room, capable of running an offense efficiently. Anthony, on the other hand, is an electric scorer who can heat up quickly and put pressure on defenses. Both players serve different roles, but each brings value to the Magic’s backcourt rotation.

Philadelphia 76ers

Tallest Player: Joel Embiid – 7’0”

Joel Embiid is unfortunately dealing with injuries yet again but obviously, when healthy, he remains Philadelphia’s ultimate game-changer. At 7’0″, Embiid has no weakness as an offensive player and might be just as good defensively. It is truly a shame that the superstar center can’t stay on the court long enough.

Shortest Player: Kyle Lowry – 6’0”

Lowry may be nearing the twilight of his career, but his toughness, leadership, and high basketball IQ still make an impact. He’s a master at drawing charges, controlling the tempo, and knocking down clutch shots. Even if his athleticism has declined, Lowry can still make outside shots efficiently. 

Phoenix Suns

Tallest Player: Bol Bol – 7’3”

Bol Bol remains one of the most intriguing talents in the league with his guard-like skills in a 7’3” frame. His ability to handle the ball and shoot from deep is rare for someone his size, but consistency has been his biggest hurdle. If he can put it all together, he could be more than a fan-favorite in Phoenix.

Shortest Player: Tyus Jones – 6’1”

Jones is one of the steadiest floor generals in the NBA, rarely turning the ball over and making smart decisions. His ability to run an offense and knock down mid-range jumpers goes beyond his smaller frame. He may not be flashy, but he’s a winning player who makes life easier for his teammates.

Portland Trail Blazers

Tallest Player: Donovan Clingan – 7’2”

Clingan enters the league as a towering big with a strong defensive presence and a developing offensive game. His ability to alter shots at the rim and control the glass gives Portland a much-needed interior force. If he continues to improve his post moves and conditioning, he could become a dominant center in the NBA.

Shortest Player: Scoot Henderson, Anfernee Simons – 6’3”

Henderson is a dynamic young point guard with elite athleticism and a fearless mentality when attacking the rim. He’s still refining his shot selection and decision-making, but his potential as a franchise cornerstone is undeniable. Simons, on the other hand, has developed into a deadly scorer, capable of lighting it up from beyond the arc or finishing at the rim.

Sacramento Kings

Tallest Player: Jonas Valanciunas – 6’11”

Valanciunas brings a traditional, bruising style to the center position, excelling as a rebounder and low-post scorer. His physicality and toughness give Sacramento an interior presence that can punish opponents inside. While he’s not the most mobile big, his skill set remains highly effective considering his large frame. 

Shortest Player: Devin Carter – 6’2”

Carter is a hard-nosed guard who plays with high energy on both ends of the floor. His defensive intensity and willingness to do the dirty work make him a valuable piece for the Kings. If he can improve his offensive efficiency, he could become a key part of Sacramento’s rotation.

San Antonio Spurs

Tallest Player: Victor Wembanyama – 7’3”

Victor Wembanyama is unlike anything the NBA has ever seen—a 7’3” unicorn with guard skills, elite shot-blocking, and three-level scoring. As he continues to develop physically, the league should be terrified of what he’ll become, and we have seen enough from the man who led the NBA in blocks for two straight seasons before his season was shut down in 2024-25.

Shortest Player: Chris Paul, Jordan McLaughlin – 6’0”

Chris Paul, despite being one of the shortest players on the court, is one of the smartest and most impactful playmakers in NBA history. His leadership, passing, and clutch decision-making make him an invaluable presence. McLaughlin, meanwhile, is a scrappy backup guard who provides depth and steady minutes when called upon.

Toronto Raptors

Tallest Player: Jakob Poeltl, Orlando Robinson – 7’0”

Poeltl is a defensive-minded center who excels at protecting the rim, setting strong screens, and finishing around the basket. His ability to anchor a defense and control the paint makes him a crucial part of Toronto’s lineup. Robinson is a developing big with potential, looking to carve out a meaningful role in the rotation.

Shortest Player: Jamal Shead – 6’0”

Shead is a tough, defensive-minded guard who prides himself on disrupting opposing ball-handlers. His quickness and tenacity make up for his lack of height, allowing him to be a pesky defender. If he can develop a consistent offensive game, he could be an impactful piece for Toronto’s backcourt.

Utah Jazz

Tallest Player: Walker Kessler, Lauri Markkanen – 7’0”

Kessler has quickly made a name for himself as one of the league’s most promising young shot-blockers. If he can continue to develop his offensive game, he’ll be an even greater force in the future. Markkanen, on the other hand, is a uniquely skilled seven-footer who thrives as a perimeter scorer. He’s proven he can be a go-to scorer for a competitive team.

Shortest Player: Jordan Clarkson, Collin Sexton, Isaiah Collier – 6’3”

Clarkson is an instant offense type of player, bringing scoring punch off the bench or as a starter. Sexton is a relentless attacker, using his speed and aggression to get to the rim and score in bunches. Collier is a young talent with a scoring mindset, still working on refining his game at the NBA level.

Washington Wizards

Tallest Player: Alex Sarr – 7’0”

Sarr is a highly skilled big man with defensive versatility and a developing offensive game. His ability to switch onto smaller players while also protecting the rim makes him an intriguing prospect. If he continues to expand his offensive arsenal, he could be a franchise cornerstone for Washington.

Shortest Player: Marcus Smart – 6’3”

Smart is the definition of a tough-nosed competitor, playing with relentless energy on both ends of the floor. He’s an elite perimeter defender who thrives on making winning plays, whether it’s taking charges or coming up with clutch steals. Smart also looks a lot bigger than his 6’3″ suggests, mainly due to his powerful frame.

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