In an era favoring taller players, guards like Davion Mitchell, Jamal Shead and Collin Gillespie are thriving with elite defense and smart play. These 6-foot-1 and shorter players have become key contributors for the Miami Heat, Toronto Raptors and Phoenix Suns. Their success highlights a blueprint for undersized guards in a physically demanding league.
The NBA has grown taller and more versatile, with fewer opportunities for small guards. In the 2025-26 season, only 30 players listed at 6-foot-1 and under have appeared in games, down from 51 in 2019-20. Yet, Davion Mitchell, Jamal Shead and Collin Gillespie are defying the trend, using strength, quickness and relentless effort to secure roles on playoff contenders.
Davion Mitchell, standing 6 feet tall with the Miami Heat, has transformed since joining the team. Traded from Toronto at last year's deadline, Mitchell averages 9.8 points and a career-high 7.8 assists per game, shooting 39.3% from three and 60.3% on drives. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra praised his uncommon lateral quickness and love for defense: "He's a tank... built like a football player." Mitchell, nicknamed "Off Night," now starts every game for the 14-11 Heat, who rank sixth in defense. He credits film study for improving his off-ball effort: "I can't relax at all."
Jamal Shead, a 6-foot-1 rookie with the Toronto Raptors, draws from Mitchell's style after scouting him in college. Drafted 45th overall, Shead ranks fourth in assists per 100 possessions at 12.3 and leads the league in offensive fouls drawn. The 15-11 Raptors, first in transition frequency, outscore opponents by 8.0 points per 100 in his minutes. Coach Darko Rajakovic called him a competitor who brings energy daily. Shead's advice: "You gotta play harder than everybody else... and be the smartest guy."
Collin Gillespie, another 6-foot-1 guard, has emerged for the 14-10 Phoenix Suns amid injuries. He scored a career-high 28 points against the Lakers, including 16 in the fourth quarter, and 19 against Minnesota with 11 in the final period. Shooting 42.9% from three, Gillespie excels in loose balls and rebounds. Suns coach Jordan Ott noted his grit: "He's gritty, tough, strong for his size." Gillespie emphasizes intangibles: "We'll do whatever it takes to win."
These players show that in a fast, physical league, small guards can thrive by adapting and outworking taller foes.