Tracy McGrady, widely celebrated as one of the NBA’s greatest scorers, has long been admired for his elite performances with the Houston Rockets and Orlando Magic. Despite a career hampered by injuries, the former All-Star and All-NBA player led his teams to multiple playoff appearances, showcasing his remarkable versatility as both a shooting guard and small forward. From 2000 to 2008, McGrady averaged an impressive 26.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game, solidifying his reputation as a dynamic force on the court.
However, a recent revelation has sparked a wave of intrigue and debate among basketball fans. On an episode of KG Certified, Boston Celtics legend Kevin Garnett dropped a bombshell about McGrady’s listed height of 6’8”. Garnett, who faced McGrady multiple times during their careers, questioned whether the superstar was truly the height he claimed to be.
“I can remember you being 6’8”, right?” Garnett said. “And then the next time I think I played you in Toronto, you was like 6’11”. I was like, ‘Dude is not 6’9”.’ I used to have to guard him, right? We think you’re 6’7”, 6’8”. You’re really like 6’11” on some other s***.”
McGrady himself added fuel to the speculation, reflecting on moments when he stood toe-to-toe with players listed as power forwards and centers. “When I stand up against Juwan Howard, who’s supposed to be 6’9”, 6’10”, I’m eye-to-eye with these cats,” McGrady revealed. “I was listed at 6’8” my whole career, but I think I’m taller.”
The possibility that McGrady was closer to seven feet tall during his playing days adds a new layer to his already extraordinary legacy. His combination of height, skill, and fluid movement on the court drew comparisons to Kevin Durant, another player who faced similar height controversies. If true, McGrady’s scoring prowess at such a height would place him among the most unique and gifted talents in NBA history.
Tracy McGrady was only listed at 6’ 8” during his playing career 🤨
Ticket gets to the bottom of how tall T-Mac REALLY is. pic.twitter.com/9ZFr2kZZxQ
— All the Smoke (@allthesmokeprod) June 12, 2025
The viral discussion between Garnett and McGrady has reignited conversations about the accuracy of listed heights in the NBA and how they impact perceptions of a player’s abilities. For now, fans are left wondering just how tall Tracy McGrady really was—and how his true stature might elevate his place among basketball’s all-time greats.