Why were there such short NBA players back in the days?(Before 1970)?

Question

I'm watching Wilt playing now.I see 6'5 midgets everywhere.

Answer 1

It has to do with the a combination of better nutrition and the increase of the popularity of basketball overall; more the latter actually. See, in Wilt's day, making the NBA didn't automatically mean fame, glory, and riches. It was just a good paying job. Now, if someone is really tall, they play basketball and shoot for the NBA. It's that simple. Back then, some circuses payed better than some NBA team owners would.

Answer 2

it's called evolution.  people are generally taller now than decades ago.

Answer 3

Shorter shorts would help the player move quicker!