Artis Gilmore stands as one of the most distinctive centers in NBA history, known for his extraordinary height and skyhook shot. Understanding how tall is Artis Gilmore requires looking at both official measurements and how he used his size on the court.
His combination of length, timing, and refined footwork allowed him to protect the rim and finish over bigger defenders. The following breakdown translates his physical profile into real-world impact.
| Category | Measurement | Notes | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reported Playing Height | 7 ft 2 in (2.18 m) | Listed on official NBA rosters | Provided rim protection and shooting lane advantages |
| Official NBA Pre-Draft Measurement | 7 ft 2 in (2.18 m) | Measured without shoes at the 1971 NBA Draft | Confirmed elite size for a center at the time |
| Wingspan | 7 ft 5 in (2.26 m) | Longer wingspan than playing height | Enhanced shot-blocking and rebounding leverage |
| Shoe-Height Estimate | Approx. 7 ft 3 in (2.21 m) | Estimated with typical basketball shoes | Exaggerated in media graphics and highlight reels |
Artis Gilmore Size In The ABA And NBA
Artis Gilmore’s height became a defining feature during his ABA and NBA career. Teams built schemes around his length, and his skyhook forced defenders to rethink closeout strategies.
Physical Profile And Playing Style
Standing 7 ft 2 in with a rare skill set for his size, Gilmore combined finesse with strength. His footwork allowed him to score without relying on speed, making him effective both inside and from midrange.
Shot Mechanics
Gilmore’s skyhook was nearly impossible to contest because of his arm span and balance. The shot traveled high and soft, often bypassing shot-blockers who relied solely on vertical leap.
Rebounding And Defense
His length translated into strong board control, especially on the offensive glass. Defensively, he altered countless shots, using his wingspan to contest without fouling.
Career Highlights And Accolades
Gilmore’s size helped him stand out in a competitive era, earning multiple All-ABA and All-NBA selections. Teams respected his ability to dominate the paint without needing the ball in his hands.
Legacy Of Size In The League
Artis Gilmore demonstrated how much of an impact true size can have in basketball. His career remains a benchmark for measuring the importance of length at the center position.
- Exceptional height and wingspan defined his playing style
- Skyhook shot was difficult to block and highly efficient
- Dominated the paint on both ends of the floor
- Set standards for size and skill at the center position
FAQ
Reader questions
Was Artis Gilmore actually 7 feet tall?
Yes, official NBA measurements list him at 7 ft 2 in, which is close to 7 feet in everyday terms.
How did his height compare to other centers of his era?
He was among the tallest centers in the 1970s and early 1980s, with few players matching his wingspan.
Did his shot block numbers benefit from his reach?
Absolutely, his length allowed him to contest shots without leaving his feet, leading to high block numbers.
Why does his listed height sometimes appear inconsistent?
Different sources measure with or without shoes, creating slight variations around the 7 ft 2 in mark.