Can You Get into the NBA Just by Being 7 Feet Tall?

Standing at 7 feet tall can indeed present a significant advantage in basketball, especially in the NBA. This height opens doors to enhanced rebounding, shot-blocking, and scoring in the paint. However, it's a misconception that height alone guarantees a spot in the league. Dubbed the '7-footer paradox,' this article explains the multifaceted criteria NBA teams look for to find the next potential star.

The Culprits Behind NBA Success - More Than Just Height

The NBA today demands a more sophisticated set of skills and attributes beyond just height. While being 7 feet tall can certainly be beneficial, it is just the starting point. A player must possess a combination of several key elements to be considered for the NBA:

Skill Level: The Foundation

Proficiency in fundamental basketball skills such as shooting, dribbling, passing, and defense is crucial. Taller players also need agility and coordination to execute effectively in the game. Mastery in these areas provides a solid foundation for their development in the NBA.

Athleticism: The Competitive Edge

Speed, strength, and vertical leap are essential attributes. A tall player must be able to move effectively on the court to participate in various plays. For instance, being able to sprint down the court, block shots, and rebound successfully requires superior athleticism.

Experience: The Path to Star Status

Competitive experience at high levels such as college basketball or international leagues is also critical. This experience helps players develop their skills and get noticed by NBA scouts. Without substantial experience, a tall player may struggle to meet the demands of the league.

Work Ethic: The Driving Force

A strong work ethic is irreplaceable. Players must be committed to training, improving their skills, and enhancing their physical conditioning. The level of dedication determines how far a player can go in their career and how well they can perform in rigorous practices and games.

Team Fit: The Lasting Decision

NBA teams look for players who can fit into their system and culture, including understanding roles and teamwork. A player must show that they can be a valuable addition to the team and contribute positively to the overall dynamics.

While height can open doors and create opportunities, a combination of skill, athleticism, and experience is essential for anyone aspiring to play in the NBA. It's a well-known maxim in the league: 'You can’t teach height!'

The Unwelcome Truth About the 7-Feet Paradox

No, the days are long gone when a random 7-footer might get a look from an NBA team based solely on their height. The modern game is now hyper-specialized, with a heavy reliance on 3-point shots, screen-and-rolls, and continuous motion. You no longer have the luxury of just sticking an immobile big guy on the block and ramming the ball into him as your primary offensive option.

A Tale of Unsung Giants

Take Tacko Fall as an example. Being just a half-foot shorter and having a similar wingspan, he is currently struggling to stay in the NBA. There are dozens of seven-footers in college each year who never even get a chance in the league. A 7-foot, 8-foot wingspan alone is far from enough to make it to the NBA. If you are relying solely on being 7 feet tall with long arms, you're not going to make it to the NBA.

The NBA is More Than Just Big

In summary, being 7 feet tall can certainly help, but it is not a guarantee for success in the NBA. To achieve and sustain a career in the league, players need to transform their height into a versatile set of skills, athletic abilities, and a wealth of experience. Work ethic and team fit are also crucial factors that NBA scouts and teams consider when evaluating potential players. The days of relying solely on height are over.