Muggsy Bogues spent his career showing basketball fans how much a 5-foot-3 point guard could accomplish. Now, the Charlotte Hornets are preparing to give him a permanent place above the court.

The team announced that Bogues’ No. 1 jersey will be retired on February 11, 2027, during halftime of its game against the Milwaukee Bucks at Spectrum Center. He will join Bobby Phills and Dell Curry as the only players in franchise history to receive the honor. (spectrumcentercharlotte.com⁠)

For fans who grew up watching basketball in the ’90s, Muggsy was unforgettable. The shortest player in NBA history brought quickness, court awareness and relentless determination to a game dominated by taller athletes. His presence gave anyone who had ever been underestimated someone to cheer for. (cdn-uat.nba.com⁠)

A Surprise Worth Watching

The announcement came with an emotional surprise. Bogues thought he was recording a promotional video when the words he was reading revealed that his own jersey would be heading to the rafters. As the news sank in, former teammate Dell Curry and members of the Hornets organization joined the celebration. (complex.com⁠)

It was a touching moment for a player whose connection to Charlotte has lasted long beyond his playing days.

He Helped Build Charlotte Basketball

Selected by Charlotte in the 1988 expansion draft, Bogues became part of the franchise’s original roster. Across parts of 10 seasons, he played 632 games for the Hornets and established himself as an exceptional playmaker. He remains the franchise leader in assists and steals. (spectrumcentercharlotte.com⁠)

Those accomplishments help explain why his name still means so much to the city. Fans remember the energy he brought to the floor, the teammates he set up and the confidence with which he competed.

His Impact Continues

Bogues has continued serving the community through the Muggsy Bogues Family Foundation, supporting underserved youth and families through food assistance, education and workforce development. His work gives another generation opportunities to pursue ambitions of their own. (boguesfoundation.org⁠)

When his jersey rises in February, Charlotte will celebrate a player who helped give its team an identity—and gave countless young fans a reason to believe they belonged on a basketball court.

Muggsy earned his place. Soon, everyone who enters the arena will be able to look up and see it.