High-Flyers On the Court: Top 10 NBA Players With the Highest Vertical Jumps

There is no other moment in the NBA that excites fans as much as the gravity-defying vertical leap. From jaw-dropping dunks to incredible blocks, vertical jumpers bring an unmatched level of excitement to the game. While Guinness World Records recognizes Darius Clark's 50-inch leap as the highest ever recorded, the NBA is home to its own legends who consistently soar above the rim.

Here are the league's top vertical jumpers for the 2024-2025 season.

Vertical Jump Average in NBA

High-Flyers On the Court: Top 10 NBA Players Vertical Jump

Vertical jumps are about much more than flashy plays; it is a major skill required for rebounding, blocking shots, and driving to the hoop. According to Top End Sports, the average vertical jump of the player in the NBA is 28 inches or 71 cm, with the point guard averaging 28.1 inches and the power forwards leading with 31.1 inches or 79 cm.

However, these averages are dwarfed by the league's best jumpers, who truly take athleticism to new heights.

Keon Johnson

Keon Johnson is the best jumper in the NBA, with an astonishing 48-inch vertical leap. This feat, recorded at the 2021/22 Draft Combine, made Johnson one of the most explosive athletes in basketball history.

Zach LaVine

Known for his spectacular dunks, Zach LaVine combines a 46-inch vertical leap with a sharp offensive game. Averaging 19.5 points per game and shooting 45.2% from the field, LaVine remains a scoring powerhouse who leaves fans in awe.

Zion Williamson

Zion Williamson's 45-inch vertical is a testament to his strength and agility. He has used his leaping ability to become one of the league's most dominant inside scorers since being the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft.

Jericho Sims

Jericho Sims impresses with a 44.5-inch vertical leap, and some reports suggest he may even surpass 50 inches under optimal conditions. His athleticism makes him a rising star to watch.

Hamidou Diallo

Playing in the CBA, Hamidou Diallo has a 44.5-inch vertical leap. Diallo has electrifying plays, but his jumping ability remains his greatest strength.

Ja Morant

Ja Morant has a 44-inch vertical leap along with great agility. His dynamic play has him scoring an average of 25 points, rebounding 5.6, and assisting 8.1 per game. His dynamic style of play has defenders always on their toes.

Aaron Brown

Aaron Brown took the scouts by surprise as he recorded a 43.5-inch vertical leap at the 2014/15 Draft Combine. In private workouts, it has been reported that he jumped as high as 54 inches.

Julian Phillips

Julian Phillips is a potent scorer with a 43-inch leap. He can clear any defender and will contribute a lot to his team from offense.

Devin Carter

Devin Carter's 42 vertical is great because he easily maneuvers around defenders and gives spectacular plays in the paint. He is an important asset on offense and defense.

Kennedy Chandler

Although he has spent the last couple of seasons not playing, Kennedy Chandler boasts a career-best 41.5-inch vertical jump, an indicator of his potential for the return season.

Emerging Stars of the NBA Vertical Jumper

If there's an intensity-filled aspect of the NBA that many fans will watch all over again, it's the dunks and the vertical leaps. Three-point shooting and ball handling are also entertaining, but when it comes to adrenaline-pumping action, nothing can beat the magic of vertical jumping and athleticism.