Basketball has been one of the most beloved sports in the world for decades, and it is no secret that it comes with a variety of stats to keep track of during games. One such statistic that has become increasingly popular among basketball enthusiasts is the double-double.
Although the term "double-double" may sound like a coffee order to some, it is actually a statistical feat that deserves recognition.
In this blog post, we will dive into the details of what exactly a double-double is, why it is called that, and highlight some of the most notable basketball players known for their double-double performances. So why wait? Let's dive in!
Understanding the Concept of a Double Double
A double-double in basketball is when a player accumulates at least 10 points and 10 rebounds or assists, steals, or blocks during a game.
Essentially, it is when a player reaches double digits in two of the five statistical categories. It is not an official statistic in basketball but is recognized as a significant achievement by players and spectators.
Why is it called a Double Double?
The term "double-double" originates from two occurrences of "double-digit" numbers in the same statistical category. The term itself was coined during the 1980s as basketball moved into an era of increased statistical tracking and reporting.
It became a common phrase for basketball enthusiasts when NBA players like Magic Johnson would average a double-double bet per game.
The Five Statistical Categories in Basketball
The five statistical categories in basketball include points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. These categories keep track of a player's contribution during a game.
Points are awarded for baskets made, while rebounds refer to the number of balls that a player retrieves after a missed shot. Assists refer to the number of passes made that lead to a score.
Steals refer to the number of times a player takes the ball from the opposing team, and blocks refer to the number of opponents' shots that are blocked by the player.
What Qualifies as a Double-Double in Basketball?
As previously mentioned, a player must accumulate double digits in two of the five statistical categories to achieve a double-double.
For example, a player could score 18 points and grab 11 rebounds during a game and qualify for a double-double. A player who scores 12 points and assists in 11 baskets would also qualify for a double-double.
The combination of statistics can vary, but a player must indeed achieve double digits in two separate categories to qualify as a double-double.
Common Examples of Double-Doubles in Basketball Games
Double-doubles are a common milestone for basketball players to achieve, and many players have done so throughout their careers.
Some common examples of double-doubles include scoring and rebound combinations, assist and steal combinations, and blocks and rebounds combinations.
It is also common for players to achieve triple-doubles, which is when a player reaches double-digit stats in three of the five categories.
How Common is a Double-Double in Professional Basketball?
Double-doubles are relatively common in professional basketball. In the 2019-2020 NBA season, there were a total of 1,370 double-doubles recorded by players throughout the year, with the Los Angeles Lakers LeBron James leading the league with a staggering 69 double-doubles.
Double-doubles are also quite common in college basketball. In the 2022-23 NCAA basketball season, Purdue University's Zach Edey led the league with 27 double-doubles.
Notable Players Known for Their Double-Doubles
Some of the most notable basketball players known for their double-double performances include Wilt Chamberlain, Tim Duncan, Shaquille O'Neal, and Kevin Love.
Wilt Chamberlain had an incredible 227 consecutive games with a double-double, a feat that remains unmatched to this day. Tim Duncan recorded the most double-doubles for a forward in NBA history, with a staggering 843.
Shaquille O'Neal is known for his dominance on the court, with an impressive 346 double-doubles throughout his career. Kevin Love is a modern-day basketball player who is currently fifth among active players in career double-doubles, with a total of 572.
In recent years, players like Russell Westbrook, LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Nikola Jokic have been dominating the double-double scene.
The Difference Between a Double-Double and a Triple Double
A triple-double in basketball refers to when a player accumulates at least 10 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists, steals, or blocks. It is a rarer achievement than a double-double and is seen as an incredible feat when achieved.
Although it is a rare achievement, it has been accomplished by some of the greatest players in basketball history, including Oscar Robertson, Magic Johnson, and LeBron James.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, a double-double in basketball is an achievement that celebrates a player's contribution to the game. The term originates from the player's ability to achieve double digits in two of the five statistical categories.
While it may not be an official statistic, it is still considered significant in basketball culture. Double-doubles have been achieved by countless players throughout basketball history, and it remains a common occurrence in professional basketball today.
So the next time you hear the term "double-double," remember the incredible effort it takes for a player to achieve it.
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Timo Väistö
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