NBA Average Vertical Leap: How Do You Compare to the Pros?

The average vertical leap in the NBA draft combine is roughly 28 inches for a standing jump and 32 to 34 inches for a running (max) jump. While these numbers are elite compared to the general population, they vary significantly by player position.

How the NBA Measures Jump Performance

During the annual NBA Draft Combine, draft prospects undergo physical testing. The vertical jump portion is split into two distinct tests, both measured using a Vertec device:

• Standing Vertical Leap: The athlete stands flat-footed under the Vertec, crouches, and explodes upward without taking any steps. This measures raw concentric power and leg extension speed.
• Max (Running) Vertical Leap: The athlete is allowed a running start (usually 15 feet) to build approach speed before jumping. This measures their ability to transfer horizontal momentum into vertical lift.

A running start typically adds **4 to 6 inches** to an athlete's vertical leap compared to their standing jump.

NBA Vertical Leap Averages by Position

To understand the combine data, we must look at how averages distribute across different positions. Taller players naturally carry more mass, which can limit their relative vertical leap height, while shorter guards require explosive verticals to compensate for their lower standing reach:

As the table shows, point guards register the highest relative jumps, averaging over 35 inches on their running vertical. Centers register the lowest relative jumps, averaging under 30 inches. However, because of their standing reaches, centers require much less vertical effort to play above the rim.

All-Time NBA Combine Records

While the averages represent standard professional athleticism, the combine has seen historic performances that stand far above the norm:

• Keon Johnson (2021): Set the official combine record with a **48.0-inch max vertical leap**. Johnson broke the previous record of 45.5 inches, displaying historic power-to-weight ratios.
• Hamidou Diallo (2017): Registered a **44.5-inch max vertical leap**, which helped him secure draft attention and eventually win the 2019 NBA Slam Dunk Contest.
• Zach LaVine (2014): While his official combine vertical was 41.5 inches, LaVine was recorded jumping **46 inches** during pre-draft workouts with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Historically, players like Michael Jordan and Vince Carter are estimated to have possessed vertical leaps in the **42 to 48-inch range**, though they did not undergo modern combine testing.

How You Compare to the Pros

If you want to compare your vertical leap to NBA averages, you must measure your jump using the same reach-differential protocol. Taping a piece of chalk to your fingers and jumping against a wall is a simple way to replicate the test.

Once you have calculated your vertical leap, you can enter your score into our Vertical Jump Calculator to see your athletic tier. Remember that you do not need an NBA-level vertical leap to dunk if you have a high standing reach. Use our Dunk Calculator to find your specific targets.

Conclusion

NBA combine data shows that professional basketball players possess elite jumping ability. However, their success is also due to standing reach and wingspan. By measuring your standing reach, calculating your required vertical, and following a consistent training program, you can work toward your own athletic goals.