NBA: Best Blocks by Little Guys on Big Guys

Throughout its history, the NBA has seen its fair share of David versus Goliath battles.

Usually, the disparity between players and teams is one of talent or desire.

Sometimes, however, the disparity is simply one of height. And in such mismatches, it is normally the undersized player who comes up short (pardon the pun).

Those players hovering around 6'0'' can normally expect any shot in the paint to quickly see itself hurtling into the stands. Likewise, taller players being guarded by a smaller player can normally expect a nice uncontested dunk in return for their efforts.

There are times, though, perhaps only once or twice a season, when the pint-sized player emerges victorious from his battle with a taller player.

When David defeats Goliath.

This slideshow is a celebration of those times.

Muggsy Bogues on Patrick Ewing

When it comes to little guys, no guy was littler than Muggsy Bogues.

Standing a not particularly imposing 5'3", Bogues was unlikely to strike fear into the heart of most NBA centers—let alone a player of the stature of Patrick Ewing.

However, fast forward to 0.21 seconds into this video to see what a little man with a big heart can do.

Ray Allen on Tyson Chandler

Although not as short as some other players on this list, Ray Allen's rejection on Tyson Chandler is still worthy of praise.

A recent reminder to NBA players everywhere not to underestimate a wily veteran.

Dwyane Wade on Dwight Howard

Dwight Howard is usually the one doing the blocking, but in this video, he comes up short against Dwyane Wade.

Earl Watson on Shawn Bradley

At 7'6" Shawn Bradley was one of the tallest players the league has ever seen.

This made him a moving target for dunkers and blockers alike.

In this video, one of the league's shorter players (6'1" Earl Watson) sends Bradley tumbling like a falling telegraph pole.

Andre Miller on Ricky Davis and Dirk Nowitzki

This video is a little bit of a cheat, as it includes two blocks. But, both of them are amazing.

The look of shock on the face of both aspiring dunkers as the smaller Miller takes away the ball is a sight to behold.

Michael Jordan on Shaquille O'Neal

Okay, maybe His Airness isn't that short at 6'6".

He is certainly no underdog in any sense of the word.

However, this block on Shaquille O'Neal in their first meeting was spectacular, and it sent the rookie phenom a clear message that Jordan wasn't planning on giving up his crown any time soon.

Allen Iverson on Hakeem Olajuown

To be honest, this block isn't as astounding as it sounds. Hakeem is going for a jump shot and Iverson gets lucky.

However, any time a guy who barely scratches 6'0'' blocks a 7'0'' offensive juggernaut, it is still a pretty big deal.

Tony Allen on Pau Gasol

Giving further evidence for those who argue that Pau Gasol is soft, Tony Allen climbs into the sky to send home this layup attempt.

Derrick Rose on Brian Scalabrine

Some may argue that blocking Brian Scalabrine is no major achievement.

But one look at this video should change that view.

Rose appears out of nowhere to take away Scalabrine's shot, leaving him to look at his empty hands and wonder what happened.

Nate Robinson on Yao Ming

Finally, the short-guy-on-big-guy block that practically defines the genre.

The 5'9" Nate Robinson has always been famous for his hops. The 7'6" Yao Ming, less so.

When the two collide in this outrageous video, the results are devastating.

Enjoy!

Thanks

Thanks for making it to the end of my slideshow. I hope you enjoyed the block party.

If you liked this one, you may want to check out some of my other NBA-themed lists:

NBA's Top 10 Blocks of the Season

The 10 Most Disappointing NBA Super Teams of All Time

Yao and Pals: the NBA's Seven Best Ever Players Over 7'4"

The 10 Funniest Hoops Articles From The Onion