What is a Double Double in Basketball? (Explained)
Basketball is a thrilling sport that captivates fans worldwide, and one of the statistical achievements that players strive for is the “Double Double.” But what exactly is a Double-Double?
In simple terms, it means a player has achieved double digits in two different statistical categories during a single game. Whether it’s scoring and rebounding, scoring and assisting, or any other combination, the Double Double is a remarkable feat that showcases a player’s versatility and impact on the game.
In this blog, we will dive a bit deeper while answering the question ‘What is a Double Double in Basketball?’
What is a Double Double?
A Double Double in basketball is when a player achieves double digits in two different statistical categories during a single game. This means they reach a minimum of 10 points in one category and 10 or more in another.
For example, a player might score 15 points and grab 12 rebounds, or they might have 18 points and 10 assists. The term “Double Double” originated from the idea of doubling the digits in two statistical categories, highlighting the player’s impressive performance.
Scoring Double Doubles
Scoring Double Doubles occur when a player achieves double digits in both scoring and another statistical category, such as rebounds or assists. It means they contribute significantly on the offensive end by scoring points while also excelling in another aspect of the game.
For instance, a player might score 20 points and collect 10 rebounds, or they could score 15 points and dish out 12 assists. Scoring Double Doubles highlight the player’s ability to make an impact on multiple fronts, showcasing their scoring prowess and versatility on the court.
Rebounding Double Doubles
Rebounding Double Doubles occurs when a player reaches double digits in both rebounding and another statistical category, such as scoring or assists. It showcases the player’s prowess in securing missed shots and controlling the boards while also contributing to another area of the game.
An example of this might be when a player grabs 15 rebounds and scores 12 points, or if the record 10 rebounds and provide 10 assists. Rebounding Double Doubles demonstrate a player’s ability to dominate the glass and make a significant impact on the team’s rebounding efforts.
Assisting Double Doubles
Assisting Double Doubles happen when a player achieves double digits in assists and another statistical category, such as scoring or rebounds. It highlights the player’s ability to create scoring opportunities for their teammates while also making an impact in another aspect of the game.
For instance, a player might record 12 assists and score 15 points, or they could have 10 assists and grab 10 rebounds. Assisting Double Doubles showcase the player’s playmaking skills and their ability to facilitate the offense effectively.
Other Categories for Double Doubles
While scoring, rebounding, and assisting are the most common statistical categories for Double Doubles, players can also achieve this feat in other areas. It could be in categories such as blocks, steals, or even a combination of different categories.
For example, a player might have 10 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 blocks in a game. These Double Doubles in unconventional categories highlight the player’s versatility, defensive prowess, and ability to make an impact beyond traditional statistics. It showcases their unique skills and contributions to the team’s success.
Who has the Most Double-Doubles in NBA History?
Wilt Chamberlain has the most career double-doubles in NBA history, with 968. He averaged 50.4 points and 25.7 rebounds per game in his career, so it’s no surprise that he would also lead the league in double-doubles.
Since the 1983-84 season, Tim Duncan has the most double-doubles in NBA history, with 841. He is a two-time NBA Finals MVP and five-time NBA champion, and his ability to consistently score and rebound made him one of the most dominant players in NBA history.
Here is a list of the top 10 players with the most career double-doubles in NBA history:
- Wilt Chamberlain (968)
- Tim Duncan (841)
- Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (787)
- Karl Malone (785)
- LeBron James (753)
- Shaquille O’Neal (724)
- Moses Malone (723)
- Kevin Garnett (716)
- Dirk Nowitzki (712)
- Bob Pettit (704)
Other Statistical Achievements in Basketball
Beyond the well-known statistics like points, rebounds, and assists, basketball has a rich array of statistical achievements that highlight players’ unique skills and contributions to the game. Here are some other notable statistical achievements that basketball players strive for and fans admire:
Triple-Double
A triple-double is one of the most celebrated milestones in basketball, achieved when a player records double-digit figures in three statistical categories in a single game. The traditional triple-double consists of points, rebounds, and assists, but players can achieve them with other combinations too, such as points, rebounds, and steals or points, assists, and blocks. This accomplishment reflects a player’s versatility and ability to impact multiple aspects of the game.
Quadruple-Double
Even rarer than a triple-double, a quadruple-double is achieved when a player records double-digit figures in four statistical categories during a game. This remarkable feat requires an extraordinary performance across points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. Only a few players in the history of basketball have achieved a quadruple-double, making it an exceedingly special accomplishment.
Quintuple Double
The quintuple-double is one of the rarest and most elusive statistical achievements in basketball. It occurs when a player records double-digit figures in five different statistical categories during a single game. The five categories typically include points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. As of now, no player has ever officially recorded a quintuple double in a basketball game.
50-40-90 Club
The 50-40-90 club refers to players who achieve shooting percentages of at least 50% from the field, 40% from beyond the three-point line, and 90% from the free-throw line over the course of a season. This club is an exclusive one, as it demands an exceptional level of shooting accuracy and efficiency. Players who achieve this milestone are often considered elite shooters and are highly revered for their scoring prowess.
Final Thoughts
A double-double statistic shows a player’s versatility and impact on the game. The more double-doubles a player has, the more they’re contributing to the team. Top-level players try to get as much of these statistics as possible and double-doubles are something they constantly strive for.
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