TP is an acronym for triple-double, a rare and impressive basketball statistic. The term is used to describe a single player who accumulates a total of ten or more in three separate statistical categories in a single game. It is an impressive feat, and one that is becoming increasingly common in the NBA. In this article, we’ll look at what TP is, the history of triple-doubles, and the most prolific triple-double performers in the NBA.
Definition of a Triple-Double
A triple-double is a statistic in which a single player accumulates a total of ten or more in three separate statistical categories in a single game. Those categories are typically points, rebounds, and assists, but can also include blocks and steals. The first known triple-double was recorded by Hall of Famer Nate Thurmond in 1974.
History of Triple-Doubles
The first known triple-double was recorded by Hall of Famer Nate Thurmond in 1974. Since then, the feat has become increasingly common in the NBA. As the game has become more focused on individual performance and the ability to fill up the stat sheet, triple-doubles have become more commonplace.
In the early days of the NBA, triple-doubles were a rare occurrence. Only seven players had achieved the feat before the 1980s. However, since then, the number of triple-doubles has grown exponentially. In the 2000s, there were more than 100 triple-double performances per season. As of 2021, there have been over 600 triple-doubles in the NBA since the 1980s.
Most Prolific Triple-Double Performers
The most prolific triple-double performer in NBA history is Hall of Famer Oscar Robertson. He holds the record for the most triple-doubles in a single season, achieving 41 in the 1961-62 season. He is also the only player to average a triple-double in a single season, averaging 30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 11.4 assists.
The active leader in triple-doubles is Russell Westbrook, who has amassed 162 in his career. He has also achieved the most triple-doubles in a single season, with 42 in the 2016-17 season. Westbrook has been a prolific triple-double performer throughout his career, and is on pace to break Robertson’s career record.
LeBron James is another active player who has achieved triple-doubles at a high rate. He currently has 94 triple-doubles in his career and is on pace to break Robertson’s career record.
Conclusion
Triple-doubles are an impressive and rare statistic in basketball. While they were once a rarity, they have become increasingly common in the NBA in recent years. The most prolific triple-double performers in NBA history are Oscar Robertson, Russell Westbrook, and LeBron James. Each of these players have achieved triple-doubles at a high rate throughout their careers, and are on track to break Robertson’s career record for the most triple-doubles.