Not too long ago, the overseas basketball market was obsessed with size—particularly in the backcourt. Tall guards were all the rage. Teams believed bigger meant better: longer defenders, taller shooters, more switchability. If you were a 5’10” guard? Good luck even getting a response to your highlight film.
But something’s changed.
In recent seasons, a subtle—but powerful—shift has been happening. More and more coaches are realizing that height doesn’t always translate to impact. And in some leagues, the trend of favoring tall guards has slowed to a crawl. Meanwhile, small guards with elite skills, leadership, and pure grit have started to steal the spotlight.
Don’t believe me? Ask TJ Shorts or Carsen Edwards—both undersized by traditional standards, but both dominant in their own ways. These two aren’t just surviving overseas; they’re thriving. MVPs, title contenders, fan favorites. And they’re paving the way for a new era of smaller guards.
So if you’re a small guard reading this, understand something: Your moment might be now.
Let’s break down exactly what’s working in your favor—and what it takes to succeed.
1. Speed Kills—Literally
Small guards who can fly are a nightmare matchup. Overseas defenses often aren’t built to contain elite quickness, especially when paired with smart decision-making. TJ Shorts has made a career off of that first-step explosion. He creates chaos, collapses defenses, and forces rotations—every time down the floor.
That type of speed isn’t just athleticism—it’s a weapon. If you’re quick, crafty, and fearless at the rim, you’re not just compensating for your size… you’re redefining the value of your position.
2. Elite Ball Handling + Poise Under Pressure
You can’t afford to be sloppy. Small guards are expected to run the show with surgical precision. Carsen Edwards isn’t flashy for the sake of it—his ball control allows him to carve up defenses and set up his teammates effortlessly.
You need to keep your dribble under pressure, split traps, and make reads in real time. If you can do that consistently, you’re exactly what overseas coaches are looking for: a floor general who doesn’t fold when things get tight.
3. Shooting Makes Everything Easier
Let’s be real: if you’re under 6 feet and can’t shoot, you’ve got an uphill battle. Overseas defenders are too smart and too disciplined to respect someone who doesn’t stretch the floor.
Deep range opens up everything—drives, spacing, pick-and-roll options. And don’t forget the midrange. In Europe especially, it’s not a lost art—it’s a necessary one. Floaters, pull-ups, and snaking through the lane off the screen? If you’ve got those in your bag, you’re golden.
4. Defense is About Pride and Positioning
Here’s where a lot of small guards get exposed. Coaches will test you. Opposing teams will target you.
But the best small guards don’t make excuses—they make plays.
Quick feet, active hands, and a relentless motor can frustrate even the most talented opponents. If you’re tough, vocal, and play like your contract depends on every possession (because it does), you’ll earn respect fast.
5. IQ and Leadership Win Contracts
Overseas teams want more than a flashy highlight reel—they want someone they can trust. Someone who controls tempo, encourages teammates, and knows when to take over or when to facilitate.
Leadership doesn’t mean yelling the loudest. It means showing up prepared, making the right play, and holding yourself accountable. That’s what makes small guards like TJ and Carsen indispensable.
If you’re smart, communicative, and confident in your role, you’ll win over teammates, coaches, and fans alike.
So, Is Being a Small Guard Still a “Disadvantage”?
It can be—but it doesn’t have to be.
Let’s play devil’s advocate. Yes, some coaches still chase size. Some systems require switching 1 through 4. And yes, a taller guard may get the benefit of the doubt on film—at first. But if you walk into a gym and dominate, nobody cares about your height.
Overseas basketball is about production. Can you lead a team? Can you close games? Can you adjust to physicality, language barriers, and homesickness, and still show up every night?
If so, then size isn’t your issue. It’s your story.
Need Help Crafting Your Path?
If you’re a small guard looking to navigate the overseas game—from marketing yourself the right way to finding the right fit—I’ve got you.
At SJM Consulting, I work with players just like you to build powerful overseas resumes, identify legit agents, and position yourself as a must-sign prospect, regardless of height.
Because talent matters. IQ matters. Leadership matters. And size? That’s just a number.
DM or email me today or book a one-on-one call to build your overseas strategy.
Let’s Talk…