You may have heard of triple-double when following basketball. It can be considered a historic moment when an NBA player achieves such an impressive accomplishment. So, what is a triple-double?
There’s a lot of debate about the definition and significance of the triple-double for NBA stars. Read on for an exact explanation of this term and a comprehensive understanding of its impacts on basketball games.
What Is A Triple Double?
A triple-double in basketball refers to when a player gains double-digit stats. It means he scores at least 10 in 3 out of 5 categories, including rebounds, points, assists, blocked shots, and steals.
For instance, an NBA star scores 16 points, assists 12 shots, and has 14 rebounds in a single game (these 3 stats are all double-digit). Then, he has achieved triple-double. This phenomenon is rare in basketball history; only several athletes have recorded this achievement and become favorite sports stars.
It not only demonstrates how excellent the player performs in the game but also serves as a testament to his stellar career. That’s why beside a double-double, a triple-double is a dream and goal any NBA stars pursue.
A triple-double is an impressive accomplishment in this sport.
Are Triple Doubles Impressive And Common?
A triple-double is an impressive achievement, but it’s uncommon for its difficulty level. The good news is that compared to previous decades, triple-doubles have become more popular in several recent seasons. This is partly thanks to the higher pace of each basketball game in the NBA championship.
Note that in basketball, the term “pace” represents the average number of possessions each playing team in the NBA uses for every basketball battle.
Thus, the more possessions each team owns, the greater the chances of reaching triple-doubles. It’s easier to achieve this impressive feat since the movement of the ball and athletes both increase.
The triple-doubles are impressive and have become more popular now.
What Is A Typical Example Of A Triple Double?
A triple-double may occur depending on different combinations of statistical categories. For example, an athlete may record 10 points, take hold of 10 rebounds, and dish out 10 assists to get a triple-double.
Similarly, ticking any 3 out of 5 boxes in multiple ways will help the player achieve a triple-double in basketball. For instance, LeBron James and Nikola Jokic often score double-digit assists, points, and rebounds.
The Positive Effects Of Triple Doubles On A Game
Triple-doubles impact the basketball game in different ways. Players in a team will use various methods, including rebounding, facilitating shots, and scoring, to throw the ball in the triple-rim hoop without hassle.
Aside from scoring, triple-doubles allow basketball players to catch good chances for an easy record. Thus, it’s undoubted that this achievement marks a personal milestone.
On the other hand, some argue that players who aim at a triple-double might pay more attention to their individual stats than the team. However, it’s undeniable that the outstanding performance of a single player enhances a team’s morale, increasing their chance to win.
The triple-doubles have a positive impact on the team.
How to Score A Triple-Double
Scoring a triple-double requires versatility in movements and skills. Thus, applying flexible skills and smooth movements in a single game increases your chances of scoring on more statistical categories.
Therefore, players should aim for at least 3 stats instead of concentrating on only one.
The most popular formula for this achievement is the combination of assists, rebounds, and points. So, you can focus on these 3 stats more than others to increase the chance of success.
The Excellent Players Who Have Gotten Triple-Doubles
Below is a list of the outstanding NBA players who have recorded impressive triple-doubles and high rankings in basketball games.
Russell Westbrook
Westbrook is among the most talented players who can apply versatile skills and consistently perform in each game. He holds the amazing record for the most achievements in NBA history with 181 triple-doubles.
Westbrook continued recording more notable triple-doubles in the 2021-22 basketball season.
LeBron James
LeBron James is an excellent player who achieved 99 triple-doubles in the regular NBA season, along with 28 accomplishments in the playoffs – a remarkable record in basketball history. His stellar success also grants him an admirable moniker – GOAT.
Nikola Jokic
Jokic is well-known for his consistent movements and fascinating shots in NBA history and is considered the fastest player to get a triple-double. In particular, he logs the accomplishment within 14 minutes and 33 seconds into a 2018 basketball game with the Milwaukee Bucks team.
Josh Giddey
When it comes to triple-doubles, Josh always stands out in NBA history who recorded multiple triple-doubles during his career. The most remarkable achievement is that he got a triple-double at only 19, making him the youngest NBA star to ever achieve this.
In that basketball battle, he scored 13 rebounds, 14 assists, and 17 points. This record put him ahead of the previous feast leader, LaMelo Ball.
Oscar Robertson
Another talented athlete in basketball history is Oscar Robertson, who has an impressive record of holding the most triple-doubles (181) for 47 years. In 1974, he scored his last triple-double, which included 10 rebounds, 10 assists, and 14 points against the Trailblazers.
This feat marked his 181st achievement in the final season when playing with the Milwaukee Bucks. He left the NBA with a notable total of 7,804 rebounds, 9,887 assists, and 26,710 points.
With these excellent records, he has become one of the outstanding players in the top list of triple-double leaders in NBA history.
Conclusion
The above information has helped you understand what a triple double is. This is an excellent achievement that only talented players can record in their NBA basketball games.
While its impact on the whole team is still debatable, it’s undoubted that getting a triple-double is a remarkable accomplishment, contributing to a player’s success.