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Manute Bol

Manute Bol was a Sudanese-born basketball player who played in the NBA from 1985 to 1995.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Manute Bol was a Sudanese-born basketball player who played in the NBA from 1985 to 1995. Standing 7 ft 7 in (2.31 m) tall, he became known as one of the sport’s greatest shot-blockers and later for his humanitarian work related to Sudan.

Early life

Manute Bol was born in Sudan and grew up before eventually moving into organized basketball later than many professional players. Available sources commonly cite his birthplace as Gogrial, though some accounts give nearby localities in southern Sudan.

College and NBA career

Bol played college basketball at Bridgeport and was drafted by the Washington Bullets in 1985. He went on to play for the Bullets, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat.

Playing style and records

Bol was a center best known for his shot blocking, length, and defensive impact. Sources describe him as one of the greatest shot-blockers in NBA history, and he retired with more blocked shots than points scored.

Humanitarian work and legacy

Beyond basketball, Bol supported causes related to Sudan and was publicly associated with humanitarian and peace efforts. His legacy is shaped by both his unusual physical stature and his off-court activism.

Key facts

  • Manute Bol played in the NBA from 1985 to 1995.
  • He stood 7 ft 7 in (2.31 m) tall and was known as one of the greatest shot-blockers.
  • Bol played for the Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat.
  • He is the only NBA player with more career blocked shots than points scored.
  • Bol was also recognized for his humanitarian work related to Sudan.

Frequently asked questions

Who was Manute Bol?
Manute Bol was a Sudanese basketball player best known for his NBA career, exceptional shot-blocking, and humanitarian work related to Sudan.
How tall was Manute Bol?
He was listed at 7 ft 7 in (2.31 m), making him one of the tallest players in NBA history.
Which NBA teams did he play for?
He played for the Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, and Miami Heat.
When did Manute Bol play in the NBA?
His NBA career ran from 1985 to 1995.
What was Manute Bol known for on the court?
He was known primarily as an elite shot-blocker and defensive specialist.
When did Manute Bol die?
He died on 19 June 2010 in Charlottesville, Virginia.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manute_Bol
    Supports: NBA career dates, teams, shot-blocking reputation, and blocked shots vs. points.
  2. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/nba/player/bio/_/id/3642/manute-bol
    Supports: Position, college, and basic biographical details.
  3. The Independent — https://www.independent.co.uk/news/obituaries/manute-bol-basketball-player-who-used-his-fame-to-help-peace-efforts-in-his-native-sudan-2017282.html
    Supports: Death date, Sudan background, and humanitarian/peace efforts.
  4. Los Angeles Times — https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2002-aug-25-adna-manute25-story.html
    Supports: Birthplace in southern Sudan and stature as one of the tallest NBA players.
  5. Infoplease — https://www.infoplease.com/biographies/sports/manute-bol
    Supports: Career summary, teams, blocked shots vs. points, and death details.