Manute Bol Height is 7 feet 7 inches (231 cm). Manute Bol was a legendary basketball player renowned for his extraordinary shot-blocking ability and defensive skills. Born on October 16, 1962, in Sudan, Bol played in the NBA for teams like the Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors, and Philadelphia 76ers.
He became one of the most feared defenders in the history of the sport, known for his ability to change the game with his shot-blocking presence.
Off the court, he was also recognized for his generosity, dedicating much of his life to humanitarian efforts in his home country and across Africa.
Manute Bol Biography/wiki
Attribute | Details |
Full Name | Manute Bol |
Date of Birth | October 16, 1962 |
Place of Birth | Gogrial, Sudan |
Nationality | Sudanese |
Height | 7 feet 7 inches (231 cm) |
Position | Center |
College | Bridgeport University (Connecticut) |
NBA Debut | October 26, 1985 |
Teams Played For | Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, Miami Heat |
Career Highlights | 2x NBA blocks leader, NBA All-Defensive Team (1989), 1985 NBA Draft (5th pick) |
Career Duration | 1985–1995 |
Playing Style | Shot-blocking specialist, exceptional defense |
Post-Retirement | Humanitarian work, focusing on Sudanese refugees and charitable efforts |
Cause of Death | Acute kidney failure |
Date of Death | June 19, 2010 |
Legacy | Remembered as one of the greatest shot-blockers in NBA history and for his philanthropy |
Who Is Manute Bol?
Manute Bol was a legendary Sudanese-American basketball player, known for his extraordinary height and exceptional shot-blocking abilities. Standing at 7 feet 7 inches (231 cm), he remains one of the tallest athletes in NBA history.
Bol played for several teams during his career, including the Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors, and Philadelphia 76ers, from 1985 to 1995. He was a dominant defensive force, leading the league in blocks twice and establishing himself as one of the best rim protectors of all time.
Off the court, Bol was recognized for his humble nature and generosity, dedicating much of his life to humanitarian work in Sudan, where he supported refugees and raised awareness for the violence and human rights issues affecting the country.
Manute Bol passed away on June 19, 2010, at the age of 47 due to acute kidney failure. His legacy endures through his philanthropy and his lasting impact on the NBA.
Manute Bol Early Life and Family
Manute Bol was born into a family with deep ties to the Dinka tribe in Sudan. His father, who was a well-respected leader in the community, had high hopes for his son. Growing up in Gogrial, a small village in Sudan, Manute was surrounded by a culture that valued strength, leadership, and resilience.
From a young age, Bol stood out due to his impressive height, which began to draw attention as early as his teenage years. His family encouraged him to pursue basketball, seeing his natural physical advantages.
Despite the challenges of growing up in a war-torn country, where resources were limited and opportunities scarce, Bol’s family played a crucial role in supporting his ambitions.
Manute’s early life was shaped by hardship and adversity. The Sudanese Civil War and political instability in his homeland had a profound impact on him and his family. At a young age, Bol moved to the United States to pursue a basketball career, which would ultimately change his life forever.
While Bol’s rise to NBA fame was remarkable, his strong family values and dedication to helping his people remained integral throughout his life. He was deeply influenced by his upbringing and sought to give back to his home country, particularly after he became successful in the NBA.
Manute Bol Nationality And Ethnicity
Manute Bol was of Sudanese nationality and belonged to the Dinka ethnic group, one of the largest ethnic groups in South Sudan. The Dinka people are known for their tall stature, and Bol’s remarkable height of 7 feet 7 inches (231 cm) was a distinctive feature that drew attention both on and off the basketball court.
Bol’s ethnic background played an important role in shaping his identity. Despite his fame in the United States, he remained deeply connected to his roots in Sudan and was known for his efforts to raise awareness about the struggles his people faced.
He dedicated much of his life to humanitarian work in Sudan, where he helped fund education and support for refugees and the displaced due to the ongoing civil war.
As a Sudanese-American, Bol navigated both cultures throughout his career, using his platform to promote peace and assist those in need in his homeland.
Manute Bol Amazing Career
Manute Bol’s career in the NBA was nothing short of amazing, marked by his unique combination of height, athleticism, and defensive prowess. Standing at an incredible 7 feet 7 inches (231 cm), Bol became one of the most feared shot-blockers in NBA history. Here’s a look at his incredible career:
NBA Career Highlights:
- Debut: Manute Bol entered the NBA in 1985 after being selected as the 5th overall pick in the 1985 NBA Draft by the Washington Bullets (now Washington Wizards).
- Defense: Known for his shot-blocking ability, he led the NBA in blocks per game two times (1985–86 and 1988–89) and ranks among the all-time leaders in career blocks.
- Playing Style: While he wasn’t known for scoring, Bol’s defense was what set him apart. He averaged 3.3 blocks per game over his career, often altering or blocking opponents’ shots without ever needing to leave the ground, due to his towering height.
- Team Career: In addition to the Washington Bullets, Bol also played for the Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, and briefly for the Miami Heat.
- NBA All-Defensive Team: Bol was selected to the NBA All-Defensive Second Team in 1989 for his outstanding defensive contributions.
- Stats: He finished his career with an average of 2.6 blocks per game and over 2,000 total blocks, a record for someone with limited offensive contributions.
Career Impact:
- Game-Changer: Bol’s defensive abilities were so game-changing that many opponents would hesitate to even attempt shots in his presence. His ability to block shots from both in the paint and from the perimeter made him a unique and impactful player on defense.
- Humanitarian Contributions: Beyond basketball, Bol’s career was also marked by his dedication to humanitarian causes. After establishing himself in the NBA, he became a well-known advocate for Sudanese refugees, using his fame to raise awareness and fundraise for various charitable causes.
Controversies
Manute Bol was known for his larger-than-life presence, not just because of his remarkable height and skill on the basketball court, but also for his humanitarian work and outspoken views. However, throughout his career and life, he was involved in a few controversies that attracted media attention. Here are some notable instances:
NBA Fight with Kermit Washington (1983):
- Background: One of the earliest controversies in Bol’s career involved a fight with Kermit Washington, a player for the Los Angeles Lakers. During a game between the Washington Bullets and the Lakers, Bol’s teammate Rudy Tomjanovich was severely injured when Washington threw a punch that struck Tomjanovich in the face, leading to significant facial injuries.
- Bol’s Role: Although Bol wasn’t directly involved in the punch, he became part of the controversy when he was reported as having an altercation with Washington in the aftermath, although he himself was never accused of misconduct. However, this incident brought attention to the volatile nature of the game during that time.
His Height as a Target for Criticism:
- Body Image and Media Scrutiny: As one of the tallest players in NBA history, Manute Bol’s height was often the subject of scrutiny and mockery by the media and fans. Critics sometimes viewed him more as a novelty due to his height rather than as a serious athlete, which created tensions around his abilities and career.
- Perceptions of Physicality: Bol was often criticized for his lack of physical strength. He was extremely tall but had a very thin frame (weighing around 200 pounds). Some critics questioned whether his body type was suited for the physicality of the NBA. This perception sometimes overshadowed his true value to teams, which was his defense and shot-blocking.
Legal Issues and Personal Finances:
- Financial Difficulties: Despite earning millions during his NBA career, Bol faced significant financial troubles later in life. Reports suggested that he lost much of his wealth due to bad investments and being taken advantage of by others. His finances became a topic of concern, especially as he continued to give large sums of money to charitable causes.
- Legal Disputes: Manute Bol’s financial struggles led to some legal disputes, including lawsuits related to contracts and unpaid debts. At one point, it was reported that he lost his home due to these issues.
Manute Bol Height, Weight, and Physical Appearance
Attribute | Details |
Height | 7 feet 7 inches (231 cm) |
Weight | 200 lbs (91 kg) |
Body Type | Slim and tall |
Hair Color | Black |
Eye Color | Brown |
Shoe Size | 17 US (52 EU) |
Manute Bol Wife/Girlfriend And Relationship
Manute Bol’s personal life, particularly his relationships, was somewhat private, but there are a few details known about his wife and family:
Wife:
- **Manute Bol was married to a woman named Ajok (a South Sudanese woman).
- Ajok and Bol had several children together. Manute was known for his strong family ties, and he often spoke about his dedication to his family and his desire to help Sudanese refugees.
Children:
- Bol had several children, and he was deeply involved in their lives. His family life was one of the things that he held most dear. His children were part of the reason for his philanthropic work, as he wanted to create a better world for them and others in Sudan.
Relationships and Personal Life:
- Despite his fame, Manute Bol was known to be humble and somewhat private about his romantic relationships. His focus was often more on his humanitarian work and basketball career than on public attention to his personal life.
- After his retirement from the NBA, Bol spent much of his time advocating for peace and raising awareness about the Sudanese Civil War and the plight of refugees, which became his true passion. His efforts to help others in his homeland were a significant part of his life’s story.
Though Manute Bol’s relationships were not frequently in the spotlight, his family, marriage, and efforts to support his homeland remained core aspects of his life and legacy.
Manute Bol Net Worth
Attribute | Details |
Estimated Net Worth | $7 million (at the time of his death) |
Primary Source of Income | NBA Career, Endorsements, Humanitarian Work |
Career Earnings | $10.5 million (approx.) |
Manute Bol Future Plan and Goals
Humanitarian Work:
- One of Bol’s greatest aspirations was to bring attention to the civil conflict in Sudan. He used his fame and resources to help refugees and those suffering in the region, specifically advocating for the people of his home country.
- His plans involved continuing his work to raise awareness about the atrocities in Sudan and to assist displaced families through both financial donations and activism.
Promoting Peace in Sudan:
- Manute Bol was passionate about peace, and one of his key future goals was to create opportunities for Sudanese youth, whether it was through education or sports. He envisioned himself as someone who could help provide the younger generation with alternatives to violence.
- His long-term goal was to see peace in Sudan and to be part of efforts to rebuild the country after the civil war.
Raising Awareness of Global Human Rights Issues:
- Aside from Sudan, Bol wanted to expand his advocacy to global human rights causes, focusing on poverty, education, and humanitarian relief around the world.
- He had already raised millions for charity during his lifetime and intended to continue his work helping those in need.
Supporting Education for African Youth:
- He was especially dedicated to providing educational opportunities to underprivileged youth, particularly in African countries. He believed that education was key to lifting people out of poverty and providing future hope.
- Bol had plans to expand his efforts in creating educational scholarships and support for students in Sudan and other African nations.
Fun Facts About Manute Bol Height
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Tied for Tallest Player in NBA History:
Standing at 7 feet 7 inches (231 cm), Manute Bol is tied with Gheorghe Mureșan as one of the tallest players to ever play in the NBA. Both of them share the record for the tallest player in the league’s history.
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Unbelievable Wingspan:
Manute Bol had a wingspan of 8 feet 6 inches (259 cm), which is even longer than his height! His wingspan allowed him to block shots and alter the course of plays more effectively than many players with typical height.
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Height Was Key to His Playing Style:
Bol was not known for his scoring ability but for his shot-blocking skills. His height and long reach made him a defensive powerhouse. He holds the record for the most blocks per game in an NBA season among players who played for a significant amount of time, averaging 5.0 blocks per game in the 1985-86 season.
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Height Despite Late Growth Spurts:
Manute Bol didn’t hit his full height until his late teens. He grew very quickly in his teenage years, which was unusual and contributed to his eventual exceptional height.
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Height Came With Challenges:
Bol’s extreme height also caused some physical challenges for him. He was often prone to back pain and joint issues, which, unfortunately, contributed to injuries during his basketball career.
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An Outsider in the NBA:
At his height, Manute Bol stood out not just in stature but in style. His playing style, relying more on defense than offense, was also unique for a player of his size. He became a legend for blocking shots but was not as well known for scoring.
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Larger Than Life:
Bol’s height also made him a bit of a celebrity off the court. He would often make appearances where fans marveled at his towering presence, and he became known as a gentle giant due to his personality.
Frequently Asked Questions About Manute Bol Height
Is Manute Bol the tallest player in NBA history?
Manute Bol is tied for the title of the tallest player in NBA history with Gheorghe Mureșan. Both players stood at 7 feet 7 inches (231 cm).
What was Manute Bol’s wingspan?
Manute Bol’s wingspan was an impressive 8 feet 6 inches (259 cm), which was longer than his height. This extraordinary wingspan contributed greatly to his ability to block shots and dominate defensively.
How did Manute Bol’s height impact his career?
Manute Bol’s height played a key role in his career, particularly in his defensive prowess. His height and long wingspan made him a shot-blocking legend, and he became known for altering shots and providing incredible defensive presence on the court.
Yes, although his height was a major advantage on the court, it also came with physical challenges. Bol suffered from back and joint pain throughout his career, which was likely exacerbated by his extreme height.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Manute Bol’s height of 7 feet 7 inches (231 cm) was not only remarkable but also a defining characteristic of his career in the NBA. His towering presence on the court allowed him to become one of the greatest shot-blockers in basketball history.
Bol’s wingspan, measuring 8 feet 6 inches, was an even more impressive aspect of his physical attributes, giving him an advantage defensively and making him a unique figure in the league.
Despite the physical challenges that came with his extraordinary height, he remains a legendary figure in the world of basketball. His height made him an unforgettable player and a true giant in the sport.