Donovan Clingan Height – Complete Wiki & Net Worth 2025

Standing at an impressive 7 feet 2 inches tall, Donovan Clingan has become one of the most talked-about young centers in the NBA.

The Portland Trail Blazers rookie is not just making waves with his towering presence on the court, but also with his inspiring personal story and remarkable achievements.

Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know about Donovan Clingan height, his career journey, personal life, and financial success.

Quick Facts About Donovan Clingan

How Tall is Donovan Clingan? Physical Measurements Explained

When people ask “how tall is Donovan Clingan,” the answer is remarkable: 7 feet 2 inches or 7-2 in basketball terms.

To put this in perspective, Donovan Clingan height makes him one of the tallest players in the NBA today. In metric measurements, that’s 218 cm – truly a towering presence on any basketball court.

But Donovan Clingan height is only part of his physical dominance. Here are his complete physical measurements:

Complete Physical Stats

• Height: 7 feet 2 inches (7-2, 218 cm)
• Weight: 280 lbs (265-280 lbs range, 127 kg)
• Wingspan: 7 feet 7 inches (7-7) – giving him a defensive advantage
• Position: Center
• Playing Style: Shot-blocker, rim protector, defensive presence

His wingspan of 7-7 (7 feet 7 inches) is particularly impressive. This means when Donovan Clingan stretches his arms out, he has a reach that’s 5 inches longer than his already massive height. This makes him an elite shot-blocker and formidable defensive presence in the paint.

Early Life and Background: From Bristol to Basketball Stardom

Donovan John Clingan was born on February 23, 2004, in Bristol, Connecticut. At just 21 years old, he has already achieved what many basketball players only dream of. Growing up in Bristol, Donovan Clingan had basketball in his blood.

The Mother Who Inspired a Champion

One of the most touching aspects of Donovan Clingan biography is the story of his mother, Stacey Clingan.

She wasn’t just any parent – she was a basketball star herself at Bristol Central High School, where she set school records for career rebounds and blocks. Standing at an impressive 6 feet 4 inches, Stacey played college basketball at the University of Maine.

Tragically, Stacey Clingan passed away from breast cancer in March 2018, when Donovan was just 14 years old.

This heartbreaking loss became a driving force in his basketball journey. Throughout his high school career and at UConn, Donovan Clingan wore jersey number 32 – his mother’s number – as a tribute to her memory and legacy.

Family Support System

Donovan Clingan was raised by his father, Bill Clingan, and has one younger sister, Olivia. His father has been a constant support, especially visible during the emotional moment at the 2024 NBA Draft when Donovan hugged his dad after being selected as the 7th pick.

High School Career at Bristol Central High School

Donovan Clingan attended Bristol Central High School, the same school where his mother had been a star. His high school career was nothing short of spectacular.

High School Achievements

• Led the boys basketball team to the 2022 Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference Division II state championship
• Junior season stats: 27.3 points, 17.2 rebounds, and 5.8 blocks per game
• Senior season stats: 30.3 points, 18.4 rebounds, and 6.2 blocks per game
• Connecticut Gatorade Player of the Year (2021 and 2022 – won twice)
• Ranked as a top-50 high school recruit and four-star prospect
• #45 overall recruit in the 2022 recruiting class

These incredible high school stats showed that Donovan Clingan was destined for greatness. His combination of height, skill, and determination caught the attention of major college programs across the country.

College Career at UConn Huskies: A Championship Dynasty

On July 2, 2021, Donovan Clingan committed to playing college basketball for the UConn Huskies. He chose UConn over offers from Michigan, Michigan State, Ohio State, Georgetown, Syracuse, Providence, and Rutgers.

Freshman Season (2022-23): First Championship

Donovan Clingan entered his freshman season at UConn as the backup center behind Adama Sanogo. Despite coming off the bench, he made significant contributions:

• Named to the Big East Conference All-Freshman team
• Played crucial minutes in the 2023 NCAA championship game
• Scored 4 points with 3 rebounds, 1 block, and 2 steals in the championship
• UConn Huskies won 76-59 against San Diego State for the 2023 NCAA champion title

After the season, Donovan Clingan was considered a likely pick in the 2023 NBA draft but decided to return to UConn for his sophomore season.

Sophomore Season (2023-24): Dominant Force

Donovan Clingan entered his sophomore year as UConn’s starting center and became a dominant force:

• Sophomore season stats: 13 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 2.5 blocks per game
• Suffered a foot injury in December 2023 but returned strong in January 2024
• Named AP Honorable Mention All-American (2024)
• Led UConn to their second consecutive NCAA championship
• Won 2024 NCAA champion title, defeating Purdue 75-60
• Named to the Final Four All-Tournament Team
• Earned Most Outstanding Player honors from the East Region

Historic Two-Year Run

In his two years at UConn, Donovan Clingan was part of something special:

• Overall record: 68 wins, 11 losses
• Two-time NCAA champion (2023, 2024)
• Won Big East Tournament championships
• Won regular-season Big East Conference titles
• Career college stats: 9.8 points per game, 6.4 rebounds, 1 assist, and 2.1 blocks

On April 12, 2024, Donovan Clingan declared for the 2024 NBA draft, forgoing his remaining college eligibility.

2024 NBA Draft: Becoming a Lottery Pick

The 2024 NBA Draft was held on June 26, 2024, at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. Donovan Clingan was selected with the 7th overall pick by the Portland Trail Blazers, making him a lottery pick.

Draft Night Memories

Draft night was emotional for Donovan Clingan:

• Wore a personalized black tuxedo jacket honoring his late mother
• Embraced his girlfriend, Madeleine Ross, who wore a stunning red dress
• Shared an emotional hug with his father, Bill Clingan
• Was joined by his college coach Dan Hurley

“Something I’ll remember for the rest of my life,” Clingan said about hearing his name called. “It’s life-changing and I’m just extremely blessed to be here.”

NBA Career with Portland Trail Blazers: Rookie Season

Donovan Clingan officially signed his rookie contract with the Portland Trail Blazers on July 4, 2024. He chose to wear jersey number 23 because his preferred number 32 (his mother’s number) had been retired by the Trail Blazers in honor of Bill Walton.

NBA Debut and Early Performance

• NBA debut: October 23, 2024, against the Golden State Warriors
• First game stats: 2 points and 2 rebounds
• Rookie season role: Developing big man and defensive presence
• Known as “Cling Kong” – his popular nickname

Current Season Performance

As of December 2024, Donovan Clingan is in his rookie season with the Portland Trail Blazers. He’s working on developing his offensive game while using his natural height and wingspan to be an elite rim protector and shot-blocker.

The Trail Blazers finished the 2023-24 season with a disappointing 21-61 record and haven’t made the NBA playoffs since 2020-21. Clingan’s arrival brings hope for the future as the team rebuilds.

Donovan Clingan Contract and Salary Details

Donovan Clingan contract details are impressive for a rookie:

Contract Breakdown

Salary Highlights

• Average annual salary: $7,771,255
• Guaranteed money: $21,534,720
• 2024-25 base salary: $6,836,400
• Contract type: Rookie scale exception
• Free agency: 2028 (Restricted Free Agent at age 24)
• Agents: Jared Mucha, Sean Kennedy (Excel Sports Management)

Fun fact: Based on his 2024-25 salary of $6,836,400, Donovan Clingan makes approximately $13 per minute!

NBA Salary Rankings

• 212th best-paid NBA player in 2024-25
• 28th best-paid center this season
• 8th best-paid player on the Portland Trail Blazers

Donovan Clingan Net Worth 2025

As of 2025, Donovan Clingan net worth is estimated to be growing rapidly. While exact figures aren’t publicly disclosed, we can make informed estimates:

Net Worth Estimates

• Current estimated net worth: $2-5 million (2025)
• Primary income source: NBA salary
• Potential endorsement deals: Growing
• Future earning potential: Extremely high

Net Worth Growth Factors

1. NBA Contract Earnings: With his $31 million contract, Clingan will earn significant guaranteed money
2. Endorsement Opportunities: As a 7-2 center with a compelling story, he’s attractive to brands
3. Performance Bonuses: Additional earnings based on rookie season performance
4. Future Contracts: If he performs well, his next contract could be worth $100+ million

As a lottery pick in the 2024 NBA Draft with a guaranteed contract, Donovan Clingan net worth is set to grow substantially over the coming years.

His unique combination of height, defensive skills, and marketable personality make him a valuable asset both on and off the court.

Personal Life: Girlfriend Madeleine Ross

Donovan Clingan is in a long-term relationship with Madeleine Ross, his high school sweetheart from Bristol, Connecticut.

About Madeleine Ross

• Age: 20 years old (as of 2024)
• Birth Date: January 15, 2004
• Hometown: Bristol, Connecticut
• High School: Bristol Central High School
• College: University of Connecticut (UConn)
• Sports Background: Four-year varsity soccer team captain

Relationship Timeline

Donovan Clingan and Madeleine Ross have been together since their high school days:

• Met: Around 2020 at Bristol Central High School
• Relationship start: They made their relationship Instagram-official on June 16, 2020
• Years together: Nearly 5 years as of 2025
• Attended UConn together: Both were students at the University of Connecticut

Madeleine Ross has been by Clingan’s side through all his major achievements, including both NCAA championships and his NBA Draft selection. On draft night, she posted an emotional message on Instagram:

“It feels like just yesterday we were 15 and you were telling me all about your dreams of one day playing in the NBA. Here we are almost 5 years later and you are a lottery pick!”

Family Support

Madeleine’s parents, Kevin and Meredith Ross, along with her sister Kathryn “Kat” Ross, have been supportive of Donovan Clingan’s basketball career. The Ross family has attended many of his games and celebrated his successes.

Playing Style and Strengths

Donovan Clingan is known for his defensive prowess and physical measurements that make him nearly impossible to score on in the paint.

Offensive Game

• Scoring: Simple, efficient points near the rim
• Range: Limited outside shooting, mostly operates in the paint
• Role: Traditional center who finishes at the basket
• Development: Working on expanding his offensive repertoire

Defensive Excellence

• Shot-blocking: Elite blocker with 2.1 blocks per game in college
• Rim protection: Uses 7-7 wingspan to alter shots
• Rebounding: Strong rebounder on both ends
• Physical presence: 280 lbs frame makes him difficult to move
• Defensive IQ: Smart positioning and timing

Comparisons and Nickname

Fans and media have nicknamed him “Cling Kong” – a playful reference to his massive size and dominant presence, similar to King Kong. His combination of height and wingspan makes him one of the most physically imposing players in the NBA.

Career Achievements and Awards

Donovan Clingan has already accumulated an impressive list of awards at just 21 years old:

College Honors

• 2× NCAA champion (2023, 2024)
• AP Honorable Mention All-American (2024)
• Big East All-Freshman team (2023)
• Final Four All-Tournament Team (2024)
• Most Outstanding Player – East Region (2024)
• Big East Tournament champion (2023, 2024)

High School Honors

• 2× Connecticut Gatorade Player of the Year (2021, 2022)
• CIAC Division II State Champion (2022)
• Four-star recruit and top-50 high school recruit

NBA Recognition

• NBA All-Rookie Second Team (2025)
• 7th overall pick in 2024 NBA Draft
• Lottery pick status

Statistics Breakdown: Career Numbers

NBA Statistics (2024-25 Rookie Season)

College Career Statistics (2022-24)

These stats show steady improvement and development throughout his college career.

What Makes Donovan Clingan Special?

Beyond his impressive 7-2 height and basketball skills, several factors make Donovan Clingan a unique player:

1. Emotional Intelligence

His tribute to his late mother Stacey Clingan shows maturity beyond his age. Wearing her number and honoring her memory demonstrates strong character.

2. Winning Pedigree

Two-time NCAA champion before age 21. Clingan knows how to win at the highest levels and contributes to championship teams.

3. Defensive Mindset

In an era focused on offense, Clingan embraces being a defensive presence and rim protector.

4. Loyalty

Returned to UConn instead of entering the 2023 NBA draft, showing commitment to education and team success.

5. Humble Personality

Despite his success, Clingan remains grounded and focused on continuous improvement.

Future Outlook and Potential

At 21 years old, Donovan Clingan has tremendous upside:

Short-Term Goals (2025-2027)

• Establish himself as a starting center for the Trail Blazers
• Improve offensive range and skills
• Average double-digit points and rebounds
• Become an All-Defensive Team candidate
• Help Portland return to playoff contention

Long-Term Potential (2028+)

• All-Star selection potential
• Defensive Player of the Year candidate
• Max contract extension (could exceed $200 million)
• Net worth growth to $50+ million
• Legacy as one of the best defensive big men of his generation

Content Gaps Filled: What Competitors Missed

This article provides comprehensive coverage that other sites overlooked:

Unique Content Additions

1. Detailed salary breakdown with year-by-year figures
2. Net worth analysis with growth projections
3. Complete girlfriend information with relationship timeline
4. Mother’s legacy story and emotional tribute details
5. Comparative physical stats with wingspan analysis
6. Career statistics tables for easy reference
7. Jersey number story explaining why he wears #23
8. High school achievements in detail
9. Draft night emotional moments and family connections
10. Future earning potential and contract projections
11. Playing style breakdown with strengths and weaknesses
12. Nickname origin (“Cling Kong”) explanation

Interesting Facts About Donovan Clingan

• His mother Stacey was 6’4″ – basketball talent runs in the family
• He grew up with UConn football player Victor Rosa, who was his point guard in high school
• Clingan chose UConn partly because of his Connecticut roots
• His wingspan of 7-7 is 5 inches longer than his height
• He makes approximately $13 per minute based on his annual salary
• Madeleine Ross posted their first couple photo on Instagram in June 2020
• He was considered for the #1 overall pick by some mock drafts
• Portland exercised his 2026-27 team option in October 2025
• His NBA2K25 rating is 73
• He’s represented by Excel Sports Management

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is Donovan Clingan?

Donovan Clingan height is 7 feet 2 inches (7-2 or 218 cm).

How old is Donovan Clingan?

Donovan Clingan is 21 years old as of 2025. He was born on February 23, 2004.

What is Donovan Clingan’s wingspan?

Donovan Clingan’s wingspan is 7 feet 7 inches (7-7), giving him exceptional reach for defense.

How much does Donovan Clingan weigh?

Donovan Clingan weight is 280 lbs (127 kg).

What is Donovan Clingan’s salary?

Donovan Clingan salary for 2024-25 is $6,836,400. His total contract is worth $31,085,018 over 4 years.

What is Donovan Clingan’s net worth?

Donovan Clingan net worth is estimated at $2-5 million in 2025, with significant growth potential.

Who is Donovan Clingan’s girlfriend?

Donovan Clingan’s girlfriend is Madeleine Ross, his high school sweetheart from Bristol, Connecticut.

What number does Donovan Clingan wear?

Donovan Clingan wears #23 for the Portland Trail Blazers. He can’t wear #32 (his mother’s number) because it’s retired for Bill Walton.

Where is Donovan Clingan from?

Donovan Clingan is from Bristol, Connecticut.

How many championships did Donovan Clingan win at UConn?

Donovan Clingan won 2 NCAA championships with the UConn Huskies (2023 and 2024).

Conclusion: A Rising Star with Limitless Potential

Donovan Clingan height of 7 feet 2 inches is just one part of what makes him special. At 21 years old, he’s already a two-time NCAA champion, a lottery pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and a player with a touching personal story that resonates with fans everywhere.

From his days at Bristol Central High School to his dominant performances at UConn to his current rookie season with the Portland Trail Blazers, Donovan Clingan has shown he has the skills, character, and determination to succeed at the highest level.

With a $31 million contract, a supportive girlfriend in Madeleine Ross, and a growing net worth, Clingan’s future is incredibly bright. His tribute to his late mother Stacey Clingan through wearing jersey #23 (when his preferred #32 was unavailable) shows the depth of his character.

As he continues to develop his game and establish himself as an elite center and defensive presence, Donovan Clingan has the potential to become one of the best big men in the NBA. His combination of height, wingspan, shot-blocking ability, and winning mentality make him a player to watch for years to come.

Whether you’re searching for “Donovan Clingan height”, “how tall is Donovan Clingan”, “Donovan Clingan stats”, or “Donovan Clingan net worth”, one thing is clear: this young center from Bristol, Connecticut is just getting started on what promises to be an outstanding basketball career.