Helena Frye
A triple-double is a basketball statistic achieved when a player reaches double digits in three of the five statistical categories (points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks) in a single game. It is considered a significant accomplishment in basketball, with only a few players achieving this feat. The first double in the term refers to the two categories in which the player has reached double digits, and the second double refers to the double-digit value itself. The most common form of a triple-double is a combination of points, rebounds, and assists.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of categories | 5 |
| Triple-double definition | Double digits in 3 categories |
| Most common triple-double | Points, rebounds, assists |
| Other combinations | Blocks or steals in lieu of other categories |
| Double-double definition | Double digits in 2 categories |
| Quadruple-double definition | Double digits in 4 categories |
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What You'll Learn
Triple doubles are rare
A triple-double is a unique and exceptional feat in basketball, and its rarity makes it a highly coveted achievement. It occurs when a player accumulates double digits in three of the five major statistical categories in a single game: points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. While it may seem like a simple matter of accumulating numbers, the reality is that achieving a triple-double requires an extraordinary all-around performance and a deep understanding of the game.
The rarity of triple-doubles lies in the fact that it demands a diverse skill set and the ability to impact the game in multiple ways. For a player to record double-digit points, they must possess strong scoring abilities, whether it be through shooting, driving to the basket, or capitalizing on opportunities inside the paint. Accumulating double-digit rebounds requires a keen sense of positioning, anticipation, and the ability to battle for possession against opponents.
Recording double-digit assists is a testament to a player's court vision, passing skills, and ability to create opportunities for their teammates. It involves an understanding of the game that goes beyond simply scoring and requires a player to be a playmaker, often dictating the flow and pace of the game. Additionally, accumulating steals and blocks requires exceptional defensive skills, quick reflexes, and the ability to anticipate an opponent's moves.
Very few players possess the all-around talent and versatility needed to consistently achieve triple-doubles. It demands a player to contribute significantly in multiple facets of the game, which is why the list of players who have achieved multiple triple-doubles is reserved for some of the sport's all-time greats. The strategic nature of basketball often dictates that players specialize in specific roles, which makes the versatility and all-around dominance needed for a triple-double a rare occurrence.
The strategic nature of basketball often dictates that players specialize in specific roles, such as being a primary scorer, a defensive specialist, or a playmaker. This specialization often limits the opportunity for players to accumulate stats across the board. Teams are built with a balance of these specialized players, and while some may excel in one or two categories, it is uncommon for a single player to dominate in three or more statistical areas consistently.
Lastly, the physical demands of basketball also contribute to the rarity of triple-doubles. The game is fast-paced and requires a high level of endurance, making it challenging for a single player to maintain a high level of performance across multiple statistical categories throughout an entire game. Achieving a triple-double is a testament to not only a player's skill but also their endurance and ability to make an impact from the beginning to the end of the game.
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Double doubles
A double-double in basketball is a single-game performance in which a player accumulates double-digit numbers in two of the following five statistical categories: points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocked shots. The first "double" in the term refers to the two categories, and the second "double" refers to accumulating ten or more in that category.
The most common double-double combinations are points and rebounds for big men, and points and assists for guards. Reaching double figures in steals or blocks is extremely rare.
Since the 1983–84 season, Tim Duncan leads the National Basketball Association (NBA) in the points–rebounds combination with 841 double-doubles, John Stockton leads the points–assists combination with 714, and Russell Westbrook leads the rebounds–assists combinations with 142. Tim Duncan also holds the record for most total career double-doubles in the NBA, with 841.
Double-doubles are more common now because the pace of the standard NBA game has increased. The term "triple-double" was coined by Harvey Pollack, a statistician for the Philadelphia 76ers, and Bruce Jolesch, the public relations director for the Los Angeles Lakers.
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Quadruple doubles
A quadruple double in basketball is a highly rare statistical feat where a player reaches double digits in any combination of four out of five statistical categories in a single game. These categories are points, rebounds, assists, blocks, and steals. For example, a player might score 10 points, make 10 rebounds, assist 10 shots, and achieve 10 steals.
The first three quadruple doubles in NBA history were achieved by players whose names are now lost to time. The fourth and most recent officially recognised quadruple double was achieved by David Robinson in 1994. Some argue that Tim Duncan achieved a quadruple double in the 2003 finals, but he was not credited with two blocks that would have brought his total up to 10.
The increase in pace of the modern NBA game has led to an increase in double and triple doubles, and some commentators believe that we may be on the verge of a "quadruple-double explosion".
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Points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks
Most triple-doubles are made up of points, rebounds, and assists. For example, a player might score 18 points, make 12 rebounds, and assist 10 shots. However, other combinations are possible, such as points, rebounds, and blocks. This is a relatively rare occurrence.
Steals and blocks are the two categories that are least likely to be part of a triple-double. Even if a player doesn't score any steals or blocks, they can still achieve a triple-double by scoring double digits in the other three categories.
A quadruple-double is when a player scores double digits in four of the five statistical categories. As of 2025, no quintuple-double (double digits in all five categories) has ever been officially recorded in the NBA, although some players may have achieved this feat before stats were recorded.
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Notable triple-double players: Russell Westbrook, Magic Johnson, James Harden, LeBron James, Luka Dončić
A triple-double in basketball is a highly sought-after achievement, with players aiming to score double-digit stats in three out of five categories: points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. While steals and blocks are less common categories for triple-doubles, they can still be achieved without scoring in the other two categories.
Russell Westbrook of the Oklahoma City Thunder holds several triple-double distinctions. He has recorded the most triple-doubles in a single season, with 42 in the 2016-17 season, 17 of which were in away games. Westbrook also holds the record for the most 50-point triple-doubles in a single season, achieving this feat three times in 2016-17. Additionally, he has been involved in six instances of triple-doubles by opponents throughout NBA history. Westbrook is one of only three players in NBA history to average a triple-double in a single season, a testament to his remarkable consistency.
Magic Johnson, a legendary player for the Los Angeles Lakers, also achieved notable triple-double feats. On November 16, 1979, Johnson was involved in a historic triple-double matchup against George McGinnis of the Denver Nuggets. Johnson's triple-double accomplishments solidify his place among the game's all-time greats.
James Harden, formerly of the Houston Rockets, is renowned for his triple-double prowess. Harden scored 60 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists against the Orlando Magic on January 30, 2018. He also recorded multiple 50-point triple-doubles across two seasons, showcasing his ability to consistently deliver exceptional performances.
LeBron James, often regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, has undoubtedly achieved numerous triple-doubles throughout his illustrious career. While specific details of his triple-double achievements are currently unavailable, there is no doubt that his all-around excellence has contributed to this feat.
Luka Dončić of the Dallas Mavericks is another exceptional talent with impressive triple-double credentials. Dončić joined the exclusive 60-point triple-double club, tallying 60 points, 21 rebounds, and 10 assists against the New York Knicks on December 27, 2022. This performance solidified his status as one of the game's rising stars.
These notable players have left their mark on the game, achieving remarkable triple-double feats that have contributed to their legendary status in the world of basketball.
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Frequently asked questions
A triple-double occurs when a basketball player scores double digits in three out of the five statistical categories in a single game. The five statistical categories are points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks.
Yes, steals and blocks count towards a triple-double. However, the most common form of a triple-double is a combination of points, rebounds, and assists.
Russell Westbrook currently holds the record for the most career triple-doubles.
Russell Westbrook recorded 182 triple-doubles, surpassing the previous record held by Oscar Robertson.
