Manute Bol: Height, Stats & NBA Career - Everything You Need To Know
Was there ever a basketball player who transcended the game with sheer physical presence? Manute Bol, standing at an astounding 7 feet 7 inches, wasn't just tall; he was a phenomenon.
Born in Sudan, within the Dinka tribe, a people known for their remarkable stature, Bol's height wasn't just a quirk of nature; it was a defining characteristic that shaped his life, his career, and his legacy. He was one of the two tallest players ever to grace the National Basketball Association (NBA) courts. His presence was immediately noticeable, a towering figure who redefined the very perception of what was possible in the sport.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Manute Bol |
| Date of Birth | October 16, 1962 |
| Place of Birth | Gogrial, South Sudan |
| Date of Death | June 19, 2010 (Age 47) |
| Place of Death | Berlin, Germany |
| Height | 7 ft 7 in (2.31 m) |
| Weight | 200 lbs (90 kg) |
| Shoe Size | 16.5 US (50 EU) |
| Position | Center |
| NBA Draft | 1985, Washington Bullets |
| Wingspan | 8 ft 6 in |
| Inseam | 49 inches |
| Zodiac Sign | Libra |
| Hall of Fame | Not in Hall of Fame |
Reference: NBA.com
Bol's journey began in the African nation of Sudan, where his towering frame was a natural inheritance. His family was remarkably tall; his mother was nearly seven feet tall, and his father stood at 6 ft 8 in. He also claimed his great-grandfather was even taller, reaching an astonishing 7 ft 10 in. His name, Manute, was given by his father, a Dinka tribal elder. This incredible genetic predisposition laid the foundation for his future in basketball.
His professional basketball career saw him play for several NBA teams, including the Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat. Although he wasn't primarily known for his scoring, his shot-blocking abilities were legendary. His exceptional height gave him a distinct advantage, allowing him to swat away shots with ease, intimidating opponents and altering the course of games. In fact, his shot-blocking prowess was a defining characteristic of his game.
The Dinka people, to which Bol belonged, are known for their height, and are among the tallest populations in the world. This genetic predisposition contributed to Manutes extraordinary size, and made him a source of constant fascination.
In an era that celebrated the rise of the NBA, Manute Bol emerged as a unique player, a cultural icon. His height, and his subsequent impact on the court, brought him fame, and earned him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.
Manute's thin physique was as notable as his height, weighing around 200 pounds (90 kilograms). The contrast between his frame and his towering presence made him all the more striking. His height-to-weight ratio was an unusual combination that made him very agile for his size. Bols height was also key to his incredible defensive abilities.
Bols career in the NBA began when he was selected by the Washington Bullets in the 1985 draft. His impact was immediate; teams soon learned to fear the long reach of his arms and the intensity with which he played defense. He became a fan favorite, and his presence was a spectacle in every game.
After a missile strike during the second Sudanese civil war, Manute was accused of being an American spy, and barred by authorities. However, this didn't deter him. Even after his NBA career, he continued to use his platform for humanitarian causes.
Manute Bol was more than just a basketball player; he was a cultural icon. He was born in Sudan, and played in the NBA; then, later in life, he would become a symbol for both his game and his efforts to uplift others.
His legacy transcends his time on the court. Bol utilized his fame and platform to become a prominent humanitarian. He worked tirelessly to support his native Sudan, raising funds for schools, hospitals, and other essential infrastructure. He was a voice for the voiceless, using his influence to bring attention to the needs of his people.
Bol's son, Bol Bol, followed in his father's footsteps, although at a slightly shorter height, is also playing in the NBA.
His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, the impact of physical gifts, and the importance of using one's platform for good. Manute Bol's extraordinary story will continue to inspire and resonate with people around the world, as he became the tallest player in the history of the national basketball association (nba).
