When the Toronto Raptors were added into the NBA as an expansion team in 95-96 season, they had the the 7th pick in the draft. And with that pick they selected Damon Stoudamire, A. K. A. Mighty Mouse. This started the Raptors’ run of diminutive guards that runs the show. Mighty Mouse had a solid rookie season, setting many rookie records and ultimately winning the Rookie of the Year honors. His team also gave the famous Michael Jordan-led 72-10 Bulls one of their only 10 losses that year.
With the departure of Mighty Mouse, Raptors brought in veteran Muggsy Bogues, who stood at 5 ft 3 inches. Though short in size, he was tough as nails, which was exactly what the young high flying cousins duo(Vince Carter and Tracy McGrady) needed. Muggsy, along with with other veterans helped set the culture of Toronto basketball, eventually culminating in the franchise’s first ever playoff appearance.
Honorable mentions: Raptors had various smaller guards along the years including TJ Ford and Fred Vanvleet. Ford, the speedy guard’s career was unfortunately cut short due to a devastating injury. Prior to this year’s undrafted Markquis Nowell, they had another undrafted guard in Fred Vanvleet who became an All Star and was crucial in the Finals during their magical Championship run in 2019. Albeit that Fred’s play style was not one of a speedster, but a shooter.
Markquis Nowell, who is 5 foot 8 inches tall looks to continue the tradition for the Raptors, winning the fans’ heart with his heart and hustle. He holds the NCAA tournament record for 19 assists in a game, a testament to great court vision and is a solid shooter with great range (35.3% career 3PT%). His skill set should help him in his goal of making the NBA. We are really looking forward to witnessing how Nowell can carve out his path in the NBA as an undersized guard- being a Raptor is definitely a great place to start!