The average size of an NBA player is currently 2 metres, the lowest in 40 years. This surprising development is explained by several factors that we will explore together. Key points include:
- Average size varies significantly by position
- A gradual decline over the last decade
- Significant differences with the general American population
- The increasing importance of versatility in the face of gross size
We offer a complete analysis of this transformation of the American professional basketball.
What is the current average NBA size?
The 2019-2020 season marked a historic turning point with an average size of 2 meters exactly, representing the lowest level recorded in four decades. This measure, which has now been formalized by mandatory medical examinations since 2019, reveals a reality that is sometimes different from the players themselves.
This new measurement policy also created some surprises: Kevin Durant, who claimed 2.15 m, actually measures 2.08 m. These differences, which are frequent in the past, make it possible to obtain more reliable and representative statistics.
Evolution of the average size of NBA players over time
The history of the NBA reveals a steady increase in mean size up to the 1990s, followed by stabilization and a slight recent decline. In the 1950s, the average size fluctuated around 1.85 m, gradually climbing to peak in the 1980s-1990s.
This development is initially due to the professionalisation of sport and the improvement of living and nutrition conditions. Paradoxically, the 2010 decade saw this trend reverse, reflecting a profound tactical change in the modern game.
Comparison between average NBA and male size in the United States
The gap remains striking: with 2 meters average, NBA players exceed the average size of American men by 20 centimetres (1.80 m). This difference illustrates the natural selection made by high-performance sports, where size is still a significant advantage.
This disparity continues despite the downward trend, confirming that the NBA remains a world of giants compared to the general population.
Why is the average NBA size decreasing?
Several factors explain this recent development. The massive adoption of the three-point game revolutionized strategies, favouring speed and address to the detriment of physical domination under the basket. Teams are now looking for versatile players who can move on to multiple positions.
The internationalisation of basketball has also contributed to this transformation. European players, often more technical than physical, bring a different style of play. The "small ball", popularized by the Golden State Warriors, shows that a team can dominate without a traditional roster of great players.
Average size per post in NBA
Leader (Point Guard)
The leader position has the smallest average size, ranging from 1.82 m to 1.92 m depending on the time. This relative stability is explained by the specific requirements of the position: game vision, speed and tactical intelligence take precedence over size. The evolution since 1952 (1.82 m) around 1987 (1.92 m) shows a slight growth before stabilization.
Back (shooting guard)
The rears followed a similar progression from 1.85 m in 1951 to 1.90 m in 1955-1957, reaching about 1.95 m since the 1990s. This reflects the growing importance of perimeter defence and external fire.
Winger (Small Forward)
Close to the general average, this position has a size ranging from 1.95 m in 1952-53 to 2.05 m in 2015-2016, before stabilizing around 2 m at present. This required versatility explains this median position.
Power Forward
Remarkably stable between 2 m and 2.05 m, this post undergoes an interesting mutation: the average weight has decreased by 10 kg in four years, favouring mobility. The accent moved from rebounds to three-point shooting.
Pivot (Centre)
The largest position remains that of pivot, ranging from 2.05 m in 1950 to 2.12 m in 1995-96. Giants like Yao Ming, Boban Marjanovic or Shawn Bradley, all above 2.20 m, embody this tradition of the imposing pivot.
The smallest and greatest players in NBA history
Muggsy Boges holds the record for the smallest NBA player with its 1.60m, proving that the exception confirms the rule. In contrast, colossals such as Gheorghe Muresan (2.31 m) or Manute Bol (2.31 m) represent the extreme inverse.
These exceptional cases highlight the possible diversity within the league, where talent can sometimes compensate for apparent physical disadvantages.
Is size still an essential criterion in NBA?
The importance of size is changing towards a more nuanced approach. If it remains an undeniable asset, other qualities gain in importance: playing technique, versatility, tactical intelligence and mentality. The example of Magic Johnson, a 2.06m leader, or the opposite of players like Chris Paul (1.83m) illustrates this diversity.
Modern play favours adaptability and ability to evolve on several positions, questioning traditional patterns based solely on size.
What size does it take to become a professional basketball player?
Although no minimum size is officially required, statistical reality shows that a size greater than 1.80 m significantly increases the chances of getting to the professional level. Players below this bar must compensate for outstanding technical and athletic qualities.
Early training and the development of fundamentals remain crucial, regardless of size. The example of players like Isaiah Thomas (1.75 m) proves that technical excellence can open doors of the highest level.
Comparison with other basketball leagues (EuroLeague, NCAA...)
The EuroLeague has a slightly lower average size than the NBA, around 1.98 m, reflecting a more technical style of play. The NCAA, an antechamber of the NBA, has averages similar to the professional league, showing continuity in the selection process.
These differences illustrate the philosophical differences between the championships: the NBA still favours the physical aspect, while Europe emphasizes the technique and the game intelligence.
The average size in NBA, although slightly decreased, remains an important marker of the evolution of modern basketball. This transformation reflects a profound change in the game, where versatility and tactical intelligence are gradually gaining importance in the face of traditional physical domination.
