The Shortest Players in WNBA History
In a league where towering athletes dominate the court, there’s a special group of players who prove that size isn’t everything. The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) has seen its fair share of dynamic and skilled players, including those who might not be the tallest, but certainly leave a lasting impact. In this article, we’ll shine a spotlight on the 10 shortest players in WNBA history and explore their contributions to the game.
- Shannon Bobbitt:
– Height: 5’2″
– Position: Point Guard
– Teams: Los Angeles Sparks, New York Liberty
Shannon Bobbitt, standing at just 5 feet 2 inches, defied expectations as a point guard in the WNBA. Known for her lightning-fast speed and impressive ball-handling skills, Bobbitt played for both the Los Angeles Sparks and the New York Liberty during her career.
- Tina Nicholson:
– Height: 5’3″
– Position: Guard
– Teams: Phoenix Mercury
Tina Nicholson, at 5 feet 3 inches, showcased her talents as a guard for the Phoenix Mercury. Her agility and tenacity on the court made her a valuable asset to her team.
- Debbie Black:
– Height: 5’3″
– Position: Point Guard
– Teams: Cleveland Rockers, Orlando Miracle, Miami Sol, Connecticut Sun
Debbie Black, a 5’3″ point guard, made a name for herself across several WNBA teams, including the Cleveland Rockers, Orlando Miracle, Miami Sol, and the Connecticut Sun. Her defensive prowess and leadership skills earned her respect throughout her career.
- Nicole Levesque:
– Height: 5’3″
– Position: Guard
– Teams: Cleveland Rockers
Nicole Levesque, a 5’3″ guard, showcased her skills with the Cleveland Rockers. Despite her height, Levesque’s impact on the court was undeniable, proving that heart and determination can overcome any physical limitations.
- Temeka Johnson:
– Height: 5’3″
– Position: Point Guard
– Teams: Washington Mystics, Los Angeles Sparks, Tulsa Shock, Seattle Storm
Temeka Johnson, a dynamic 5’3″ point guard, had a notable career playing for multiple teams, including the Washington Mystics, Los Angeles Sparks, Tulsa Shock, and the Seattle Storm. Her playmaking abilities and court vision set her apart.
- Rui Machida:
– Height: 5’4″
– Position: Guard
– Teams: Phoenix Mercury
Rui Machida, at 5 feet 4 inches, made her mark as a guard for the Phoenix Mercury. Despite her smaller stature, Machida’s skills contributed to the team’s success during her tenure.
- Raina Perez:
– Height: 5’4″
– Position: Guard
– Teams: Chicago Sky
Raina Perez, a 5’4″ guard, brought her talents to the Chicago Sky. Known for her scoring ability and versatility, Perez proved that she could hold her own against taller opponents.
- Brooke McCarty:
– Height: 5’4″
– Position: Guard
– Teams: Dallas Wings
Brooke McCarty, standing at 5 feet 4 inches, made her mark as a guard for the Dallas Wings. Her speed and shooting accuracy made her a valuable asset to the team.
- Erica White:
– Height: 5’3″
– Position: Guard
– Teams: Indiana Fever, Chicago Sky, Phoenix Mercury, Connecticut Sun
Erica White, a 5’3″ guard, showcased her skills on multiple WNBA teams, including the Indiana Fever, Chicago Sky, Phoenix Mercury, and the Connecticut Sun. Her tenacity on both ends of the court made her a fan favorite.
- Heather Butler:
– Height: 5’5″
– Position: Guard
– Teams: New York Liberty
Heather Butler, at 5 feet 5 inches, rounded out our list as a guard for the New York Liberty. Despite being one of the taller players on this list, Butler’s contributions are significant, and her journey in the WNBA is a testament to the diversity of talent in the league.
Conclusion:
These 10 players, though not the tallest on the court, have left an indelible mark on the history of the WNBA. Their determination, skills, and passion for the game prove that in basketball, heart and skill can triumph over height. As we celebrate the diversity of talent in the league, these athletes serve as an inspiration to aspiring players, reminding us that greatness comes in all sizes.