The 22 NBA Players Who Are 7’0″ (2023-2024)
In the NBA, players who stand at 7’0″ hold a special stature, quite literally. Standing well above the league’s average height of 6’6 1/2″, these 7-footers bring a unique blend of size, skill, and presence to the basketball court.
The 7’0″ height in the NBA is traditionally associated with the center position, players who dominate the paint, control the rebounds, and act as defensive anchors with their shot-blocking abilities. However, the modern 7-footer often defies these traditional roles, displaying skills such as shooting from the perimeter, handling the ball, and even playmaking.
Players like Karl-Anthony Towns of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers exemplify this new breed of big men, showcasing versatility that transcends the conventional boundaries of their positions.
In this feature, we’ll explore the careers, playing styles, and unique abilities of these 7’0″ players. Whether they’re anchoring the defense, dominating the low post, or stepping out to hit three-pointers, these players prove that being 7 feet tall in the NBA comes with a diverse set of roles and responsibilities.
7’0″ NBA Players
| Name | Pos | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Deandre Ayton | C | Portland Trail Blazers |
| Ibou Badji | C | Portland Trail Blazers |
| Mo Bamba | C | Philadelphia 76ers |
| Charles Bediako | C | San Antonio Spurs |
| Walker Kessler | C | Utah Jazz |
| Christian Koloko | C | Toronto Raptors |
| Alex Len | C | Sacramento Kings |
| Jusuf Nurkic | C | Phoenix Suns |
| Jakob Poeltl | C | Toronto Raptors |
| Neemias Queta | C | Boston Celtics |
| Nick Richards | C | Charlotte Hornets |
| Mark Williams | C | Charlotte Hornets |
| Ivica Zubac | C | Los Angeles Clippers |
| Joel Embiid | C-F | Philadelphia 76ers |
| Isaiah Hartenstein | C-F | New York Knicks |
| Name | Pos | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Jaxson Hayes | C-F | Los Angeles Lakers |
| JaVale McGee | C-F | Sacramento Kings |
| Mitchell Robinson | C-F | New York Knicks |
| Karl-Anthony Towns | C-F | Minnesota Timberwolves |
| Aleksej Pokusevski | F | Oklahoma City Thunder |
| Santi Aldama | F-C | Memphis Grizzlies |
| Lauri Markkanen | F-C | Utah Jazz |
Following our detailed table of the NBA’s 7’0″ players, it’s evident that these towering figures, standing well above the league’s average height of 6’6 1/2″, bring a significant presence and skill set to the court. Their impressive height, combined with evolving basketball skills, allows them to play pivotal roles in both traditional and contemporary styles of play.
For example, Deandre Ayton, known for his efficient scoring and strong rebounding, brings a blend of athleticism and finesse to the center position. His ability to control the paint and contribute offensively makes him a key asset to his team.
On the other hand, McGee, with his extensive experience and notable defensive capabilities, showcases the vital role a 7’0″ player can play in rim protection and as a defensive anchor for his squad.
Player Bios
These players underscore the versatility and adaptability of modern 7’0″ athletes in the NBA. Their ability to fulfill various roles, from scoring and rebounding to shot-blocking and defense, highlights the value of combining physical height with diverse skill sets in professional basketball.
Karl-Anthony Towns
Height: 7’0″
Position: Center-Forward
Team: Minnesota Timberwolves
Karl-Anthony Towns, playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves, stands out as one of the most versatile big men in the NBA. At a towering 7’0″, Towns combines his size with an impressive skill set that includes a remarkable shooting touch, making him one of the league’s top shooting big men. His ability to stretch the floor and score from the perimeter, as well as in the post, makes him a unique offensive threat.
Towns has consistently been one of the top scorers and rebounders for the Timberwolves since his debut. His offensive versatility extends beyond scoring, as he also possesses the ability to create plays for his teammates. Defensively, Towns’ presence in the paint impacts opposing teams’ scoring opportunities.
Joel Embiid
Height: 7’0″
Position: Center-Forward
Team: Philadelphia 76ers
Joel Embiid, a center-forward for the Philadelphia 76ers, is known for his dominant presence on both ends of the court. Embiid’s 7’0″ stature, combined with his skill and agility, makes him one of the most formidable players in the NBA. He excels in scoring in the post, drawing fouls, and has developed a reliable mid-range and three-point shot.
Embiid’s impact extends to the defensive end, where he is a formidable shot-blocker and rim protector. His size and instincts make him a constant threat to opposing offenses. Embiid’s ability to dominate games has made him a perennial MVP candidate and one of the top centers in the league.
Deandre Ayton
Height: 7’0″
Position: Center
Team: Portland Trail Blazers
Deandre Ayton, playing as a center for the Portland Trail Blazers, is quickly establishing himself as one of the prominent big men in the NBA. Ayton combines his impressive physical stature with a well-rounded skill set. Known for his efficiency around the basket, Ayton excels in scoring through post moves and alley-oops, as well as being a formidable rebounder.
Since entering the league, Ayton has shown significant growth in his game, particularly in his defensive capabilities. His ability to protect the rim and control the boards makes him a key defensive asset for the Trail Blazers. Offensively, he continues to develop, providing reliable scoring and strong screen-setting, crucial for his team’s offensive flow.
JaVale McGee
Height: 7’0″
Position: Center
Team: Sacramento Kings
JaVale McGee, a veteran center for the Sacramento Kings, brings a wealth of experience and a strong defensive presence to his team. McGee is known for his shot-blocking ability and athleticism, which allow him to protect the rim effectively. His height and leaping ability also make him an excellent rebounder and a threat in catching lobs on the offensive end.
Throughout his career, McGee has been a valuable contributor on multiple teams, often providing a spark off the bench with his energy and defensive instincts. His ability to alter shots and his effectiveness in the pick-and-roll game make him a valuable asset in the Kings’ rotation. McGee’s experience, including winning multiple NBA championships, brings a level of leadership and knowledge that benefits his teammates.
Conclusion
The 7’0″ players in the NBA, such as Deandre Ayton, JaVale McGee, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Joel Embiid, exemplify the significant impact and versatility that this height brings to professional basketball.
These players demonstrate the evolving nature of the 7-footer in the NBA. They are not just limited to rim protection and post play; many have developed abilities in shooting, playmaking, and even leading fast breaks. Their presence on the court is a strategic advantage, providing their teams with a multifaceted skill set that can adapt to various play styles and situations.
The success of these 7’0″ players highlights how the game has grown to value a combination of height, agility, and skill. Their ability to impact games in multiple ways—from scoring and rebounding to shot-blocking and floor spacing—underscores the importance of versatility in today’s basketball landscape.
