The shortest NBA player dominating the court in 2025, you’ll want to know Yuki Kawamura. Standing at 5’8”, Waters is the shortest current NBA player this season. Despite his height, he’s a powerhouse for the Memphis Grizzlies, dazzling fans with his agility, playmaking, and defensive grit. From my years covering the NBA, I’ve seen how players like Waters redefine the game, proving you don’t need to tower over rivals to make an impact.
The legacy of famous short basketball players like Muggsy Bogues (5’3”) and Isaiah Thomas (5’9”) lives on through today’s stars. These icons relied on speed, IQ, and relentless hustle—traits Waters embodies. While the average NBA height hovers around 6’6”, shorter athletes thrive by mastering fundamentals. Think ankle-breaking crossovers or clutch steals—it’s how they’ve stayed relevant in a league obsessed with size.
So, who is the shortest NBA player right now? Waters wears the crown, but the shortest NBA player current rosters proves the game is evolving. Teams now prioritize skill diversity, opening doors for undersized talent. Trust me, after analyzing decades of stats and trends, basketball’s future is inclusive. If you’ve ever been told you’re “too short” for hoops, let Waters’ journey inspire you. Greatness isn’t measured in inches—it’s built with heart.
Top 10 Shortest Players in NBA History
The shortest players in NBA history have defied expectations and made significant contributions to the game. Here’s a table highlighting some of these remarkable athletes:
| Player | Height | NBA Career | League |
| Muggsy Bogues | 5’3″ | 1987–2001 | NBA |
| Earl Boykins | 5’5″ | 1998–2012 | NBA |
| Spud Webb | 5’6″ | 1985–1998 | NBA |
| Mel Hirsch | 5’6″ | 1946–1947 | BAA |
| Greg Grant | 5’7″ | 1989–1996 | NBA |
| Keith Jennings | 5’7″ | 1992–1995 | NBA |
| Red Klotz | 5’7″ | 1947–1948 | BAA |
| Wataru Misaka | 5’7″ | 1947–1948 | BAA |
| Monte Towe | 5’7″ | 1976–1977 | NBA |
| Charlie Criss | 5’8″ | 1977–1986 | NBA |
Notable Highlights:
- Muggsy Bogues is the shortest player in NBA history at 5’3″. Despite his stature, he had a successful 14-year career, known for his quickness and defensive skills.
- Spud Webb, standing at 5’6″, amazed fans by winning the 1986 NBA Slam Dunk Contest, showcasing his incredible leaping ability.
- Wataru Misaka broke the NBA’s color barrier in 1947 as the first player of Asian descent, playing for the New York Knicks.
These players have demonstrated that determination and skill can overcome physical limitations, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
The Shortest Player in the NBA 2024
As of the 2024–25 NBA season, Yuki Kawamura is the shortest active player in the league. At 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm), the Japanese point guard plays for the Memphis Grizzlies on a two-way contract with their G League affiliate, the Memphis Hustle
The shortest NBA players for the 2024–25 season:
| Player | Height | Team | League |
| Yuki Kawamura | 5’8″ | Memphis Grizzlies | NBA |
| Aaron Holiday | 6’0″ | Houston Rockets | NBA |
| Chris Paul | 6’0″ | San Antonio Spurs | NBA |
| Davion Mitchell | 6’0″ | Toronto Raptors | NBA |
| Fred VanVleet | 6’0″ | Houston Rockets | NBA |
| Jordan McLaughlin | 6’0″ | Sacramento Kings | NBA |
| Jose Alvarado | 6’0″ | New Orleans Pelicans | NBA |
| Kyle Lowry | 6’0″ | Philadelphia 76ers | NBA |
| Mike Conley | 6’0″ | Minnesota Timberwolves | NBA |
Notably, Kawamura is the only player under 6 feet tall currently active in the NBA. Kawamura’s journey to the NBA is remarkable. He overcame language barriers by learning English through watching Michael Jordan’s “The Last Dance” documentary with subtitles. His determination and skill have earned him a spot in the league, demonstrating that perseverance can transcend obstacles
