The 5 Shortest Centers in the NBA (2024)
Traditionally, centers are the Goliaths of the court, dominating the paint with their height and size. However, there are some exceptional players who challenge this norm with their lesser stature but enormous talent.
In this article, we will take a look at the shortest centers in the NBA. These players have not only carved a niche for themselves but have also redefined what it means to be a center in the NBA. From powerful dunks to remarkable defensive plays, they’ve shown that height isn’t the only factor that makes a great center.
Shortest NBA Centers
| Name | Height | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Khem Birch | 6’8″ | Toronto Raptors |
| Micah Potter | 6’8″ | Utah Jazz |
| Bismack Biyombo | 6’9″ | Phoenix Suns |
| Jarrett Allen | 6’9″ | Cleveland Cavaliers |
| Day’Ron Sharpe | 6’9″ | Brooklyn Nets |
In a league where the average center is over 6’11” and the tallest centers are well over 7 feet tall, it’s pretty impressive to have the success that these guys have had at just 6’8″ and 6’9″.
Khem Birch
Khem Birch went undrafted in the 2014 NBA Draft. Despite this setback, he carved out a niche for himself in pro basketball, first excelling overseas and then in the NBA G League. Birch made his NBA debut with the Orlando Magic in 2017, where he was recognized for his strong rebounding, shot-blocking, and overall defensive abilities.
Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, he has often been praised for his work ethic and impact on the defensive end of the court. Birch’s journey is a testament to determination and skill overcoming initial challenges in a highly competitive sport.
Micah Potter
At 6 feet 8 inches, Micah Potter is known for his impressive rebounding skills, and ability to shoot from the perimeter, a relatively rare attribute for a player of his position.
Although he went undrafted in the 2021 NBA Draft, Potter has been making strides in his career, including playing in the NBA Summer League and seeking opportunities in the NBA G League before finally landing with the Utah Jazz. His perseverance and commitment to refining his game positioned him as a promising talent.
Bismack Biyombo
Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, Biyombo is slightly undersized for a center but compensates with his exceptional wingspan, athleticism, and shot-blocking ability.
Over his NBA career, he has played for several teams, including the Charlotte Hornets, Toronto Raptors, and Phoenix Suns, consistently being praised for his rebounding and defensive contributions. Biyombo’s journey from the courts of Congo to the bright lights of the NBA is a testament to his hard work, resilience, and the transformative power of sport.
Jarrett Allen
Drafted 22nd overall in the 2017 NBA Draft by the Brooklyn Nets, he quickly established himself as a formidable center. Standing at 6 feet 9 inches with a notable wingspan, Allen is particularly recognized for his shot-blocking, rebounding, and efficient scoring around the rim.
His ability to impact games on both ends of the court has made him a valuable player in the league, with stints at the Nets and later the Cleveland Cavaliers. Allen’s growth from a promising rookie to a reliable starting center in the NBA underscores his development into one of the league’s notable big men.
Day’Ron Sharpe
Standing at 6 feet 9 inches, he was selected by the Phoenix Suns with the 29th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft and was subsequently traded to the Brooklyn Nets. Sharpe’s rookie season in the NBA showcased his potential as a dynamic big man, capable of making an impact both offensively and defensively.
His ability to adapt and improve, coupled with his natural athleticism and basketball IQ, positions him as a promising young talent in the league, with the potential to grow into a significant contributor for his team.
Keep in Mind: NBA Player’s Heights
The accuracy of NBA players’ listed heights has long been a topic of intrigue and debate among fans and analysts alike.
Historically, the heights of players were often recorded with their basketball shoes on, leading to slight exaggerations. This practice, combined with the tendency of some players and teams to inflate or decrease their heights for strategic reasons, has contributed to discrepancies between official listings and actual measurements.
For instance, a player might be listed taller to fit the traditional mold of their position or shorter to create a perception of being more agile. The NBA addressed this issue by implementing a policy in 2019 requiring teams to certify players’ heights without shoes, aiming to bring more transparency and accuracy.
However, the legacy of these discrepancies continues to be a fascinating aspect of the game, highlighting how perceptions and realities can diverge in the world of professional sports.
Conclusion
The stories of these shorter centers in the NBA underscore a powerful narrative: success in basketball isn’t solely dictated by physical attributes like height (relatively speaking of course!).
Players like Khem Birch, Micah Potter, Bismack Biyombo, Jarrett Allen, and Day’Ron Sharpe have demonstrated that skill, determination, and adaptability can defy traditional expectations. Their careers remind us that the essence of basketball lies in the heart and talent of the player, not just their physical stature.
Resources
Height and Weight data pulled from NBA.com official rosters in February of 2023. Only players listed as pure centers (not forward-center) were included.
