The Small Guard Tradition

Undersized guards have always faced skepticism in professional basketball, yet some continue to rise above expectations. This season, TJ Shorts is making waves in the EuroLeague, while young talents like Aaron Towo-Nansi are proving that skill and determination can outweigh height.

Article by Ata Toprak Koşal | Friday March 14, 2025

Small guards have always faced challenges in professional basketball, yet some continue to exceed expectations. This season, TJ Shorts is making headlines with his impact in the EuroLeague. Before stepping onto Europe’s biggest stage, he played a key role in Paris' EuroCup championship and Bonn’s Basketball Champions League title run. Despite standing just 5-foot-9, Shorts dominates with his quick first step, elite ball-handling, and ability to finish in tight spaces.  

Just as Shorts has proven that size isn’t a limitation at the highest level, a new wave of young guards is emerging. One of the most promising names is Aaron Towo-Nansi, a 174 cm French guard who made a statement at the Adidas Next Generation Tournament. Despite being two years younger than the tournament's generation, he delivered a standout performance, earning a spot in the tournament's All-Star Five. His 36-point explosion against Insep Paris kept Adidas Select Team in the game through two overtimes, showcasing his ability to take over when needed.  

Aaron isn’t just a scoring threat - his defensive intensity and leadership set him apart as a two-way player. While his game differs from former player, Adidas NextGen Team coach Doğuş Balbay, known for his athleticism and defensive prowess, Aaron represents the continued evolution of undersized guards, blending skill, scoring ability, and defensive engagement.  

As European basketball increasingly prioritizes skill over size, players like TJ Shorts and Aaron Towo-Nansi prove that small guards can thrive at any level. Whether through scoring, playmaking, or defensive effort, they continue to challenge traditional norms and leave a lasting impact on the game.