The 7 Tallest Centers in the NBA (2023-2024)
In a sport where height can be a significant advantage, the NBA has always been home to some of the tallest athletes in the world. But even among these giants, a few stand out, towering over their teammates and opponents alike. Today, we’re setting our sights on the literal giants of the game: the centers.
With 48 centers currently playing in the NBA, it takes something special to stand out. And for this exclusive group, that “something special” is their extraordinary height. In this deep dive, we’ve narrowed down our focus to the seven tallest centers in the league, each standing at an imposing height of 7’1″ or taller.
These players don’t just bring height to the table; they bring a unique set of skills that are amplified by their size. From shot-blocking prowess to an intimidating presence in the paint, these centers redefine what it means to play big.
Tallest NBA Centers
| Name | Height | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Boban Marjanovic | 7’4″ | Houston Rockets |
| Moses Brown | 7’2″ | Portland Trail Blazers |
| Robin Lopez | 7’1″ | Milwaukee Bucks |
| Brook Lopez | 7’1″ | Milwaukee Bucks |
| Dereck Lively II | 7’1″ | Dallas Mavericks |
| Jay Huff | 7’1″ | Denver Nuggets |
| Rudy Goebert | 7’1″ | Rudy Gobert |
Even with the average height for a center being an impressive 6’11 1/4″, the seven centers standing at 7’1″ or taller are in a league of their own. This extra height, although seemingly slight, provides them with distinct advantages on the court.
It enhances their ability to rebound, block shots, and assert dominance in the paint. While scoring over defenders becomes easier due to their towering stature, it’s important to remember that their overall effectiveness is not just a factor of height but also includes skill, athleticism, and basketball intelligence.
Player Bios
Here is a little extra info on a few of the standout centers measuring 7’1″ or taller:
Boban Marjanović
Height: 7’4″
Team: Dallas Mavericks
Boban Marjanović, standing at an impressive 7’4″, is not just one of the tallest players in the NBA but also one of the most intriguing. Born in Serbia, Marjanović’s journey to the NBA is a tale of relentless hard work and determination.
In the NBA, Boban has become known for more than just his height. He has a soft touch around the rim and surprising agility for his size. His ability to use his height to his advantage, particularly in scoring and rebounding, makes him a valuable asset on the court.
Off the court, Marjanović is known for his gentle demeanor and sense of humor, endearing him to teammates and fans alike. His journey from Serbia to the NBA is a testament to his skill and dedication to the game.
Robin Lopez
Height: 7’1″
Team: Milwaukee Bucks
Robin Lopez, the twin brother of fellow NBA player Brook Lopez, is a 7’1″ center known for his defensive prowess and quirky personality. Lopez played college basketball at Stanford before entering the NBA. His game is characterized by solid rim protection, a strong work ethic, and an ability to contribute effectively on both ends of the court.
Throughout his NBA career, Robin has been a valuable asset to various teams, bringing toughness and intensity to the center position. His ability to alter shots and his hustle on defense make him a formidable opponent under the basket.
Off the court, Lopez is famous for his love of comic books and his lighthearted rivalry with NBA mascots, adding a unique flavor to his persona.
Brook Lopez: The Versatile Veteran
Height: 7’1″
Team: Milwaukee Bucks
Brook Lopez, the twin brother of Robin Lopez and standing at the same height of 7’1″, brings a unique blend of traditional and modern center skills to the NBA.
Lopez carved out a niche for himself as one of the more versatile big men in the league. A product of Stanford University like his brother, Brook has evolved his game to adapt to the changing landscape of the NBA.
Initially known for his post-up play and scoring around the rim, Brook has expanded his repertoire to include three-point shooting, becoming a significant threat from beyond the arc. This evolution has made him an invaluable asset in today’s game, where spacing and outside shooting are at a premium.
Rudy Gobert: The Stifle Tower
Height: 7’1″
Rudy Gobert, another 7’1″ powerhouse, has made a name for himself as one of the premier defensive players in the NBA. Gobert’s impact on the court is defined by his nickname, “The Stifle Tower.” His exceptional wingspan and timing make him a fearsome shot-blocker and a defensive anchor for his team.
Gobert’s presence in the paint is a deterrent for opposing players, altering the offensive strategies of other teams. Offensively, while he may not be a primary scorer, his ability to finish at the rim and provide valuable second-chance points through offensive rebounds is crucial.
Rudy has earned multiple NBA Defensive Player of the Year awards, testament to his dominance on the defensive end.
Conclusion
The extraordinary heights of these NBA centers — Boban Marjanović, Robin Lopez, Brook Lopez, and Rudy Gobert — are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to their impact on the game. Each of these players brings a distinct set of skills and attributes that go far beyond their impressive stature.
From Marjanović’s scoring efficiency and Lopez brothers’ blend of defense and shooting to Gobert’s defensive mastery, these players demonstrate how height, combined with talent and hard work, can create a formidable presence on the court.
Their contributions extend beyond individual statistics; they change the dynamics of the game, challenge opposing strategies, and often become the linchpins of their teams’ defensive and offensive systems.
