From the lanky centers who could turn your shot into a block party to the colossal big men that dominated the low post, the NBA has seen its fair share of towering legends. We’re talking about players who could reach up and pluck a basketball from the clouds, whose wingspans seemed to stretch for miles and whose mere presence altered the course of a game.
There have been a number of exceptionally tall players throughout the history of NBA basketball. These larger-than-life figures have struck fear into the hearts of opponents and left fans in awe. We’ve already taken a look at the biggest hand sizes in NBA history, but in this article from Bovada Sportsbook, we countdown the 10 tallest NBA players of all-time. From skyscrapers to shot-blockers, brace yourselves for a journey that will leave you looking up, both literally and figuratively, at these massive basketball legends. 85w
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10. Mark Eaton – 7’4”
As a player for the NBA’s Utah Jazz, Eaton stood tall as a defensive force in the league for nearly a decade. At a towering 7 feet 4 inches, he used his immense size to become a shot-blocking machine, earning two Defensive Player of the Year awards along the way. Off the court, Eaton was known for his humility and gentle demeanor, leaving a lasting impact both as a player and as a beloved figure in the basketball community.
9. Sim Bhullar – 7’5”
As the first player of Indian descent to sign with an NBA team, Bhullar broke barriers and inspired countless aspiring players. He quickly made waves with his massive presence at 7 feet 5 inches. Although his NBA career lasted just three games with the Sacramento Kings, Bhullar showcased his shot-blocking prowess and left an indelible mark on the game. Beyond basketball, he continues to be an ambassador for diversity and inclusion, using his platform to encourage young athletes from underrepresented communities to pursue their dreams on and off the court.
8. Pavel Podkolzin – 7’5”
Podkolzin, a former Dallas Maverick hailing from Russia, stood out with his remarkable height at 7 feet 5 inches. Despite his immense physical attributes, Podkolzin faced challenges in transitioning to the NBA game, but his potential as a shot-blocker and rebounder was evident. While his NBA career didn’t reach its full potential, his presence as one of the tallest players in league history remains noteworthy. Podkolzin continues to compete internationally and serves as a reminder of the game’s global reach.
7. Chuck Nevitt – 7’5”
This former NBA player stood tall at an astounding 7 feet 5 inches. He embraced his role as a backup center and provided a valuable defensive presence whenever called upon, playing for five different teams over a 10-year NBA career. Nevitt’s affable personality and sense of humor made him a beloved figure among fans and teammates alike. While his statistics may not have reflected his impact, his towering presence and unwavering spirit left a lasting impression on the basketball community.
6. Tacko Fall – 7’6”
Standing at a remarkable 7 feet 6 inches, Fall is known for his incredible wingspan and shot-blocking abilities. While still early in his NBA career, Fall has already had minor stints with the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers. This massive big man has the potential to dominate the paint and alter opponents’ shots with ease. Away from the game, his gentle demeanor and infectious smile have endeared him to fans worldwide, making him a big draw wherever he goes!
5. Yao Ming – 7’6”
Coming from China and dominating the NBA with his size, skill, and versatility, the 7 foot 6 Yao quickly became a global ambassador for the sport. More than just a low-post threat, the former Rocket was a solid shooter who could knock down open shots with ease. Beyond his impressive stats and numerous All-Star selections, Yao’s impact extended worldwide as he bridged cultures and inspired countless aspiring players. Despite his career being shortened by injuries, his legacy as one of the game’s greatest big men endures.
4. Shawn Bradley – 7’6”
Known primarily for his shot-blocking prowess and defensive skills with the 76ers and Mavericks, Bradley was able to establish himself as a formidable force in the paint. Bradley’s remarkable height and wingspan made him a deterrent for opponents driving to the basket. While his offensive game left something to be desired, his shot-altering abilities were undeniable. Bradley is yet another big man whose career was cut short due to injuries, but his towering legacy endures.
3. Slavko Vraneš – 7’6”
He may have only played a single game in his NBA career, but Slavko Vraneš will go down as one of the tallest players in league history. The former Portland Trailblazer stood at 7 feet 6 inches and was a formidable presence in the paint, altering shots and grabbing rebounds with ease. While his NBA career was short-lived, Vraneš found success overseas, showcasing his skills in several European leagues over the years.
2. Manute Bol – 7’7”
Bol was a larger-than-life presence in the basketball world, soaring above the competition at an astonishing 7 feet 7 inches. With his remarkable height, Bol became a shot-blocking phenomenon, swatting away opponents’ shots with ease and altering the course of games. His towering frame and unparalleled wingspan made him a formidable defensive force. Hailing from Sudan, Bol used his NBA platform to advocate for humanitarian causes, leaving a lasting impact both on and off the court.
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1. Gheorghe Muresan – 7’7”
A former center for both the Washington Bullets and New Jersey Nets, Gheorghe Muresan stands as the tallest player in NBA history. Towering over the competition at an astounding 7 feet 7 inches, Muresan’s height set him apart from his peers. With his towering presence, he became an imposing force in the paint, using his immense size to score, rebound and block shots with authority. Muresan’s incredible height granted him a unique advantage, allowing him to dominate the game in ways that few others could. He was a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the court, using his size to alter shots and anchor the defense.
