When people talk about the NBA, height is often seen as the biggest advantage. Yet, Earl Boykins Height proves that determination, skill, and heart can sometimes matter more than inches. Standing at just 5 feet 5 inches (1.65 m), Boykins carved out a respected career in a league dominated by giants. His journey from Cleveland to the NBA and later to coaching is a story that continues to inspire.
Who is Earl Boykins?
Earl Boykins is a former American professional basketball player and now a coach. He is best known for being the second-shortest player in NBA history, right behind Muggsy Bogues. Despite his small frame, he played 13 seasons in the NBA, representing several teams, including the Denver Nuggets, Milwaukee Bucks, Washington Wizards, and Houston Rockets.
Today, he serves as an assistant coach for the USC Trojans in the Big Ten Conference. The fact that earl boykins height never stopped him from succeeding makes his story even more special.
Early Life
Earl Antoine Boykins was born on June 2, 1976, in Cleveland, Ohio. His father, Willie Williams, had a huge role in shaping his career. Boykins’ father would sneak him into gyms inside a duffel bag just so he could play with older, taller players.
At Cleveland Central Catholic High School, Boykins became a standout athlete. As a senior, he averaged 24.6 points per game and led his team to a 23–2 record. His small size made him underestimated by many, but his quickness and scoring ability set him apart.
| Section | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Earl Antoine Boykins |
| Date of Birth | June 2, 1976 |
| Birthplace | Cleveland, Ohio |
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (1.65 m) |
| Weight | 133 lbs (60 kg) |
| College | Eastern Michigan University |
| NBA Career | 1998–2012 |
| Net Worth | $6 Million (2025) |
| Current Role | USC Assistant Coach |
Education
After high school, Boykins accepted a scholarship to Eastern Michigan University. He played college basketball from 1994 to 1998, and his time there was remarkable.
- In 1996 and 1998, Eastern Michigan won the MAC tournament.
- Boykins was named to the First-team All-MAC in his junior and senior years.
- During his senior year, he averaged 26.8 points per game, ranking second in the nation.
- He also set the university record for total assists (624).
In recognition of his contributions, Eastern Michigan retired his jersey number 11 in 2011. This honor shows that even though earl boykins height was considered a limitation, his skills were larger than life.
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Earl Boykins Career Journey
Boykins’ career path was never easy. He went undrafted in the 1998 NBA Draft, but his persistence earned him short contracts with different NBA teams. He played for the Nets, Cavaliers, Magic, and Clippers before finally finding stability.
His breakthrough came when he signed with the Denver Nuggets in 2003. Here, he gained fame as one of the best sixth men in the NBA. On November 11, 2004, he scored 32 points against the Detroit Pistons, becoming the shortest player in NBA history to score more than 30 points in a game.
Later, Boykins also played for the Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte Bobcats, Washington Wizards, and Houston Rockets. In 2008, he joined Virtus Bologna in Italy, where he became the highest-paid player in the Italian League, proving that his talent was recognized worldwide.
He retired from professional play in 2012 but returned to the game as a coach. His coaching career included Douglas County High School, then UTEP, and now USC.
Net Worth
Earl Boykins earned a respectable fortune during his basketball career. His contracts in the NBA and Europe gave him financial security. As of 2025, his estimated net worth is around $6 million.
This wealth comes not just from playing but also from coaching and endorsements. His career shows that even though earl boykins height was considered unusual for the NBA, it never prevented him from achieving financial stability.
Relationship
Boykins has kept his personal life relatively private. He is married, and family has always been important to him. While he does not share many details publicly, it is known that his decision to briefly leave Virtus Bologna in 2008 was connected to visiting his sick son. This shows how much he values family over career.
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Family
Raised in Cleveland, Boykins credits much of his success to his father’s support. His father not only encouraged him but also taught him to never let height define his limits. As a father himself, Boykins has shown the same dedication to his children, ensuring that family comes first.
Social Links
Earl Boykins maintains a modest presence on social media compared to modern athletes. He occasionally appears in interviews, basketball events, and USC-related news. While he is not heavily active online, his legacy continues to circulate on platforms where fans discuss legendary NBA players who beat the odds.
Physical Appearance
Talking about earl boykins height is essential to understanding his journey. At 5 ft 5 in and 133 lbs (60 kg), he was one of the smallest athletes ever to play in the NBA. His quickness, agility, and fearless style of play made him hard to guard.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 5 ft 5 in (1.65 m) |
| Weight | 133 lbs (60 kg) |
| Position | Point Guard |
| Jersey Numbers | 7, 5, 11, 12, 6 |
| Playing Style | Quick, fearless, skilled passer and scorer |
His small size actually became his advantage, as defenders struggled to match his speed and balance.
Achievements and Legacy
Boykins’ career is full of achievements:
- Frances Pomeroy Naismith Award (1998)
- EuroChallenge Champion (2009)
- USA Basketball Male Athlete of the Year (1997)
- Gold Medal at the 1997 Summer Universiade
- Eastern Michigan Jersey Retirement (2011)
These milestones show that while earl boykins height was often questioned, his legacy is undeniable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Earl Boykins height?
Earl Boykins height is 5 feet 5 inches (1.65 m), making him the second-shortest player in NBA history.
Did Earl Boykins’ height affect his career?
Yes, but in a positive way. Many underestimated him, but his speed and skills allowed him to succeed.
How many points did Earl Boykins score in his career?
Boykins scored 5,791 career points in the NBA, averaging 8.9 points per game.
What is Earl Boykins doing now?
As of 2025, Boykins is an assistant coach for the USC Trojans, continuing his basketball journey.
Conclusion
The story of earl boykins height is more than just about numbers. It is about breaking barriers, proving doubters wrong, and succeeding against the odds. From Cleveland to the NBA and now in coaching, Boykins showed the world that height does not define greatness.
His life remains an inspiration for young athletes who are told they are “too small” or “not fit” for the game. Earl Boykins will always be remembered as a player who let his skills speak louder than his size.