Sun Mingming is a former professional basketball player from China who gained international recognition for his extraordinary height of 7'9" (2.36m). Born in 1983, he became a two-time Chinese Basketball Association (CBA) champion with the Beijing Ducks and made appearances in American media due to his remarkable stature.
Biography Table
| Full Name | Sun Mingming |
|---|---|
| Profession | Former Basketball Player |
| Date of Birth | August 23, 1983 |
| Age | 41 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | China |
| Nationality | Chinese |
| Height | 7'9" (2.36m) |
| Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
| Spouse | Xu Yan (m. 2013) |
| Net Worth | $2-3 million (estimated as of 2025) |
Early Life & Background
Sun Mingming was born on August 23, 1983, in Bayan County, Harbin, China. His extraordinary height is attributed to a tumor on his pituitary gland that caused excessive growth hormone production. Unlike many basketball players who begin training at a very young age, Sun didn't start playing basketball until he was 15 years old. Despite this late start, his exceptional height made him a natural prospect for the sport.
His early years were spent in Bayan County, where he grew up with one brother and one sister. After showing promise in basketball, he pursued professional opportunities in his home country before setting his sights on an international career.
Career Journey
Sun's basketball journey took a significant turn when he moved to the United States in 2005 to pursue a career in the NBA. Despite his impressive height making him the tallest player to attend an NBA draft combine, he went undrafted. This setback was partly due to health concerns related to the pituitary tumor that caused his gigantism.
After undergoing surgery to remove the tumor, Sun played for various minor league teams in the United States, including the Maryland Nighthawks of the ABA and the Dodge City Legend of the USBL.
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His career reached its peak when he returned to China and joined the Beijing Ducks in the Chinese Basketball Association. With the Ducks, he won championship titles in 2012 and 2014, establishing himself as a valuable player in the CBA. He also played for the Hamamatsu Phoenix team alongside another famous tall player, Gheorghe Muresan, who stands at 7'7".
Personal Life
Sun Mingming married Xu Yan in 2013. Interestingly, his wife is also a former basketball player who stands at an impressive 6'6" (1.98m), making them one of the tallest couples in the world. Together, they've become somewhat of a cultural phenomenon in China.
Sun has one brother and one sister, though he tends to keep details about his extended family private. His personal life gained additional attention when he and his wife appeared on various television shows highlighting their unique relationship.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Sun Mingming's net worth is estimated to be between $2-3 million. His income has primarily come from his professional basketball career in the CBA, endorsement deals in China, and special appearances in films and television shows.
While not reaching the financial heights of NBA stars, Sun has maintained a comfortable lifestyle through his combination of athletic and entertainment ventures. His unique physical attributes have provided him with opportunities beyond traditional sports careers.
Notable Facts & Trivia
Sun's remarkable height led to several interesting opportunities outside of basketball. Perhaps most notably, he appeared in a fight scene with Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker in the 2007 action comedy film Rush Hour 3.
He has made appearances on American television shows like Jimmy Kimmel Live! and was featured in the documentary Anatomy of a Giant, which explored the lives of exceptionally tall individuals.
Sun holds the distinction of being one of the tallest professional basketball players in history and certainly the tallest Chinese basketball player ever. His medical condition was successfully treated, allowing him to continue his athletic career.
FAQ
How tall is Sun Mingming exactly?
Sun Mingming stands at 7'9" (2.36m), making him one of the tallest professional basketball players in history.
Did Sun Mingming ever play in the NBA?
No, despite his attempts to enter the NBA draft in 2005, he went undrafted and never played in the NBA. His career was primarily in the Chinese Basketball Association.
What medical condition caused Sun Mingming's extreme height?
Sun had a tumor on his pituitary gland that caused gigantism by producing excessive growth hormone. He later had surgery to remove this tumor.
Is Sun Mingming still playing basketball?
No, Sun has retired from professional basketball but remains involved with the sport through promotional events in China.
Who is Sun Mingming's wife?
Sun is married to Xu Yan, who is also a former basketball player standing at 6'6" (1.98m). They married in 2013.