Key takeaways:
- A double-double in basketball is when a player records double digits in two of the five statistical categories: points, rebounds, assists, steals, or blocks in a single game.
- Consistently achieving a double-double suggests a player has a well-rounded skill set that helps their team in various ways.
- Dominant NBA and WNBA players like Anthony Davis and Alyssa Thomas regularly showcase their double-double basketball abilities.
In basketball, a “double-double” is a benchmark of versatility and well-rounded performance. It signifies a player’s ability to dominate in multiple faces of the game.
Players who achieve a double-double in basketball have a multifaceted skill set, so they more heavily influence a game’s outcome.
But what exactly is a double-double in basketball? It’s when a player amasses double figures in two different statistical categories during a single game. For example, if a player scores 10 points and secures 10 rebounds in one game, they’ve achieved a double double.
Stay with us for a deeper dive into basketball double-doubles, including exploring its impact on games and looking at the world’s best NBA and WNBA players who consistently deliver double-doubles. We also touch on how players can hone their skills so they’re more likely to shine in multiple statistical categories.
The Concept of a Double-Double
When we dive into the question – “What is a double double in basketball?” – we uncover a performance metric that distinguishes the all-rounders from specialists.
A double-double in basketball is a statistical achievement where a player records double digits in two of the five primary statistical categories – points, rebounds, assists, steals, or blocks – in a single game.
It underscores a player’s versatility, showcasing their ability not just to score but also to be a playmaker, a defender, and a contributor in various aspects of the game.
Breaking it Down:
- Points: Scoring ten or more points in a game.
- Rebounds: Securing ten or more rebounds, both offensive and defensive.
- Assists: Recording ten or more basketball assists that lead directly to scoring.
- Steals: Successfully making ten or more steals from the opponent.
- Blocks: Blocking ten or more attempted shots by the opponent.
Russell Westbrook, an NBA star who now plays for the LA Clippers, is respected for scoring and his ability to assist and rebound, often recording double-doubles by combining points with one of the other two categories.
In the WNBA, players like veteran Candace Parker stand out. With her scoring and rebounding abilities, Candace is one of the leaders in all-time WNBA double-doubles, thanks to her 15 years of dominant on-court performances.
Learn more: What is a rebound in basketball?
The Impact of a Double-Double in a Game
A double-double in basketball isn’t just a personal statistical achievement; it’s a game-changer for teams. When a player records a double-double, they often significantly influence the game’s direction and outcome.
Game Dynamics:
- Versatility: A player achieving a double-double positively impacts their team in a multifaceted way. Whereas some players are only scorers or rebounders, versatile players who record double doubles are bringing more to the table.
- Team Momentum: Double-doubles often boost team morale and energy. When one player excels in two areas, it generates momentum for a team. It can inspire teammates to elevate their game.
- Opponent Pressure: Achieving a double-double puts pressure on the opposing team. Competing against a player who is influential in more than one statistical category is challenging.
For instance, if a player is scoring and securing rebounds, it means they’re influencing both the offensive and defensive aspects of the game. This dual-threat capability can tilt the game in their team’s favor.
In double-double basketball, it’s not just about individual dominance but also how that above-average performance translates to team success. Players who consistently achieve double-doubles are often seen as invaluable assets, driving their teams toward more wins.
Learn more: How long is a basketball game?
NBA and WNBA Stars Known for Double-Doubles
A double-double in basketball is undoubtedly an achievement. Still, in the context of the world’s best basketball players in the NBA and WNBA, they are not at all rare. The top players in each respective league regularly record double- or triple-doubles.
One notable name is Alyssa Thomas for the WNBA’s Connecticut Sun. With her skills in rebounding, assists, and scoring, Alyssa has made double-doubles a regular feature of her game. She set a single-season record for double-doubles with 28 in the 2023 regular season. She also set a record for the most triple-doubles in basketball games.
Top 10 WNBA Players in Double-Doubles in the 2023 Regular Season
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM | DOUBLE-DOUBLES |
| 1 | Alyssa Thomas | Connecticut Sun | 28 |
| 2 | A’ja Wilson | Las Vegas Aces | 22 |
| 3 | Breanna Stewart | New York Liberty | 20 |
| 4 | Nneka Ogwumike | Los Angeles Sparks | 16 |
| 5 | Satou Sabally | Dallas Wings | 14 |
| T-6 | NaLyssa Smith | Indiana Fever | 13 |
| T-6 | Teaira McCowan | Dallas Wings | 13 |
| 8 | Natasha Howard | Dallas Wings | 12 |
| T-9 | Aaliyah Boston | Indiana Fever | 11 |
| T-9 | Jonquel Jones | New York Liberty | 11 |
| T-9 | Napheesa Collier | Minnesota Lynx | 11 |
Learn more: Who is the highest paid WNBA player?
On the NBA front, Domantas Sabonis of the Sacramento Kings had 65 double-double games in the 2022-23 NBA regular season, more than anybody else. Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets was second on the list with 58 double-doubles in the NBA season.
Top 10 NBA Players in Double-Doubles in the 2022-23 Regular Season
| RANK | PLAYER | TEAM | DOUBLE-DOUBLES |
| 1 | Domantas Sabonis | Sacramento Kings | 65 |
| 2 | Nikola Jokic | Denver Nuggets | 58 |
| 3 | Nikola Vucevic | Chicago Bulls | 51 |
| 4 | Giannis Antetokounmpo | Milwaukee Bucks | 46 |
| 5 | Jonas Valanciunas | New Orleans Pelicans | 43 |
| T-6 | Anthony Davis | Los Angeles Lakers | 40 |
| T-6 | Julius Randle | New York Knicks | 40 |
| T-6 | Trae Young | Atlanta Hawks | 40 |
| 9 | Joel Embiid | Philadelphia 76ers | 39 |
| 10 | Bobby Portis | Milwaukee Bucks | 38 |
Strategies to Achieve a Double-Double in Basketball
Coaches value players who can achieve double-doubles as they’re more efficient and positively contribute to the team’s success in multiple ways.
Players in any position can achieve a double-double. Guards most often get them through scoring and assists. In contrast, centers and forwards closer to the net usually get them through scoring and rebounding.
The easiest part of achieving a double-double in basketball is the scoring, especially if you’re a starter and play significant minutes of a game. If you break it down by quarter, you only need to score two to three points per quarter to hit double digits. That’s a two-point field goal plus a free throw or a single three-pointer.
That leaves you with getting double-digits in a second category: rebounds, assists, blocks, or steals. Getting at least 10 blocks or steals in a game is much more complicated than rebounds and assists. So, focusing on upping your numbers in rebounds and assists is the way to go for more double-doubles.
If you’re trying to become a more efficient player and earn more double-doubles, some techniques you can focus on are:
- Aggressively drive to the basket: Being aggressive and driving to the rim can open up scoring opportunities in layups or free throws if you get fouled. It also opens opportunities for assists if the help defense comes over to open a passing lane to a teammate.
- Emphasize rebounding: Better-than-average rebounders go after every missed shot attempt. Teams miss about 60 percent of shots, so you’ve got countless opportunities to grab boards. Focus on your timing, positioning, and mindset when shots go up so you’re in place to secure more rebounds.
Learn more: How tall is a basketball hoop?
FAQ
What is an example of a double-double in basketball?
An example of a double-double is when a player records 10 points and 12 rebounds, or 15 assists and 10 steals in a single game. These are both examples of double-doubles because the player has reached double digits in two different statistical categories.
Is 10 points and 10 assists a double-double?
Yes, recording 10 points and 10 assists in a single game qualifies as a double-double in basketball. The player has achieved double digits in two statistical categories.
How rare is a double-double in basketball?
Double-doubles are not extremely rare but are a significant achievement. They indicate a player’s ability to contribute to multiple game aspects, showcasing their versatility and skill.
Are double-doubles possible in both the NBA and WNBA?
Yes, double-doubles are a standard performance metric in both leagues. Players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Nikola Jokic in the NBA and A’ja Wilson and Breanna Stewart in the WNBA consistently achieve double-doubles.
What skills are essential to achieve a double-double?
Key skills for a double-double in basketball include scoring, rebounding, playmaking (assists), defensive skills (steals), and shot-blocking. A well-rounded skill set and versatility on the court are crucial.
