21 NBA Players Who Were “Too Tall” For The NBA

Introduction: The Allure of Height in Basketball

In the world of basketball, height is often seen as a significant advantage. Taller players can dominate the paint, block shots, and secure rebounds with ease. However, being “too tall” can also present unique challenges that may hinder a player’s effectiveness on the court. While many towering athletes have excelled in the NBA, some have struggled to adapt to the pace and style of the game. This story explores 21 NBA players who were considered “too tall” for the league, examining their journeys, challenges, and contributions to basketball.

Chapter 1: The Giants of the Game

Gheorghe Mureșan
Standing at 7 feet 7 inches, Gheorghe Mureșan is one of the tallest players in NBA history. Despite his height, Mureșan faced challenges with mobility and agility. His career was marked by flashes of brilliance, including winning the NBA’s Most Improved Player award in 1995, but injuries limited his impact on the game.
Manute Bol
Another towering figure at 7 feet 7 inches, Manute Bol was known for his shot-blocking prowess. While he played for teams like the Washington Bullets and the Golden State Warriors, his lack of offensive skills and mobility made it difficult for him to find a consistent role in the NBA.
Yao Ming
At 7 feet 6 inches, Yao Ming was a global icon and a dominant force in the NBA. However, his height came with a price; injuries plagued his career, ultimately leading to his early retirement. Despite this, Yao left an indelible mark on the league and helped popularize basketball in China.
Shawn Bradley
Known for his 7 feet 6 inches frame, Shawn Bradley was a shot-blocker and rebounder. However, his slender build and lack of agility often hindered his ability to compete against more athletic players. Bradley had a respectable career but never fully lived up to the expectations of a player of his height.
Zydrunas Ilgauskas
Standing at 7 feet 3 inches, Zydrunas Ilgauskas faced numerous injuries early in his career. Despite these challenges, he became a two-time NBA All-Star and a key player for the Cleveland Cavaliers. His ability to shoot from the perimeter helped redefine the role of tall players in the league.

Chapter 2: The Struggles of Height

Kristaps Porziņģis
At 7 feet 3 inches, Kristaps Porziņģis was heralded as a unicorn for his unique skill set. However, injuries have plagued his career, raising questions about whether a player of his height can withstand the rigors of the NBA season.
Ralph Sampson
Standing at 7 feet 4 inches, Ralph Sampson was a college superstar but struggled to adapt to the NBA’s physicality. His height made him a target for injuries, and despite his potential, he never reached the heights many expected.
Greg Oden
Although not the tallest at 7 feet, Greg Oden’s height combined with his physical style of play led to significant injury problems. Once considered a generational talent, Oden’s career was marred by injuries, limiting his impact in the league.
Boban Marjanović
At 7 feet 4 inches, Boban Marjanović is known for his incredible size and efficiency when on the court. However, his limited mobility and defensive challenges often restrict his playing time, raising questions about his fit in the modern NBA.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar
Standing at 7 feet 2 inches, Kareem is one of the greatest players in NBA history. However, his height also brought challenges, including the need to adapt his game to avoid injuries as he aged. His skyhook became a signature move that showcased how height could be an advantage when paired with skill.

Chapter 3: The Impact of Height on the Game

DeSagana Diop
At 7 feet tall, Diop was known for his defensive abilities but struggled offensively. His limited skill set made it difficult for him to find a consistent role in the NBA, leading to a journeyman career.
Mikailo “Mike” Biyombo
Standing at 7 feet, Biyombo’s defensive prowess was often overshadowed by his offensive limitations. Despite being a valuable rim protector, his inability to score consistently kept him from becoming a star.
JaVale McGee
At 7 feet tall, JaVale McGee has had a successful career, but his height has often been a double-edged sword. While he has the physical tools to dominate, his inconsistency and occasional lapses in judgment have made him a polarizing figure in the league.
Tacko Fall
Standing at 7 feet 6 inches, Tacko Fall gained fame for his incredible height and fan-friendly personality. However, his limited skill set and mobility have raised questions about his long-term viability in the NBA.
Bol Bol
At 7 feet 2 inches, Bol Bol has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled to find a consistent role in the league. His unique skill set as a tall player presents challenges in adapting to the fast-paced nature of the NBA.

Chapter 4: The Legacy of Tall Players

Thon Maker
Standing at 7 feet, Thon Maker’s journey in the NBA has been marked by inconsistency. While he possesses the potential to be a versatile player, his height and skill set have made it challenging for him to find a permanent role.
Larry Nance Jr.
At 6 feet 9 inches, Larry Nance Jr. may not be the tallest player, but he embodies the spirit of “too tall” players. His high-flying dunks and defensive abilities showcase how height can be an asset, but also a challenge in the league.
Pau Gasol
Standing at 7 feet, Pau Gasol has had a storied career, becoming one of the most skilled big men in NBA history. His height allowed him to dominate in the post, but his ability to shoot from the perimeter helped redefine the role of tall players.
David Robinson
Known as “The Admiral,” David Robinson stood at 7 feet 1 inch and was a dominant force in the NBA. However, his height also brought challenges, including the need to adapt his game as the league evolved.
Dwight Howard
At 6 feet 10 inches, Dwight Howard may not fit the “too tall” mold, but his physical presence and athleticism have made him a dominant force in the league. His journey showcases how height can be both a blessing and a curse.
Nikola Jokić
Standing at 6 feet 11 inches, Nikola Jokić has redefined the center position with his incredible passing and playmaking abilities. While not the tallest, his unique skill set highlights how players can overcome the challenges of height.

Conclusion: Embracing Height in the NBA

The stories of these 21 players illustrate the complexities of being “too tall” in the NBA. While height can provide advantages, it also presents challenges that require players to adapt their games. Many of these athletes have left a lasting impact on the league, proving that with the right mindset and dedication, height can be both a gift and a challenge. As the NBA continues to evolve, the role of tall players will remain a topic of interest, showcasing the diverse skill sets that can thrive in the game of basketball.