What is a Double-Double in Basketball?
A double-double in basketball is when a player achieves a double-digit total in two of the five major statistical categories: points, rebounds, assists, steals and blocks. Double-doubles are considered a sign of a well-rounded player and are often celebrated with a round of applause from fans.
History of the Double-Double
The term double-double was first used in the mid-1980s, when the National Basketball Association (NBA) was beginning to track these statistical categories. Although the term was not widely used until the 1990s, double-doubles have been achieved since the early days of the NBA.
The first double-double recorded in the NBA was in 1946, when George Mikan of the Minneapolis Lakers scored 25 points and grabbed 18 rebounds in a game against the Chicago Stags. Since then, double-doubles have become a staple in basketball, with countless players achieving them throughout the history of the NBA.
Notable Double-Doubles
Over the years, several players have achieved particularly impressive double-doubles. Some of the most iconic double-doubles include:
- Wilt Chamberlain – Chamberlain holds the record for most career double-doubles with an astounding 867. He also holds the record for most double-doubles in a single season, with an incredible 78 in the 1961-62 season.
- Oscar Robertson – Robertson had 181 double-doubles in the 1961-62 season, the second-most in history. His triple-double that same season (30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 11.4 assists per game) is considered one of the greatest statistical accomplishments in NBA history.
- LeBron James – James has recorded the most double-doubles of any active player, with an impressive 890 to date.
How to Get a Double-Double
Achieving a double-double is no easy feat – it requires skill, dedication, and a lot of hard work. To get a double-double, players must focus on the following:
Ball Handling and Passing
Players need to have a firm grasp of ball handling and passing skills to achieve a double-double. Good ball handling and passing will help players to get into good positions to score and to find open teammates for assists.
Rebounding
Rebounding is a key skill for any player looking to get a double-double. Players must be able to box out opponents and grab rebounds in order to get the points and assists needed for a double-double.
Defense
Good defensive play is a must for any player looking to get a double-double. Players need to be able to anticipate the moves of their opponents and find ways to disrupt their play. This will help to create steals and blocks, which can lead to points and assists.
Fitness
To get a double-double, players must have a high level of fitness. This means having the endurance to run up and down the court for the entire game, as well as the strength to battle for rebounds and loose balls.
Mental Strength
Players need to have a strong mental game in order to get a double-double. This means being able to focus on the task at hand and to stay composed under pressure. Players must also have the confidence to take the big shots and make the big plays when needed.
How Hard is it to Get a Double-Double?
Achieving a double-double is certainly not easy, and it requires a lot of hard work and dedication. However, it is not impossible. With the right combination of skill, dedication and hard work, any player can get a double-double.
Examples of Players Who Have Achieved Double-Doubles
There are countless examples of players who have achieved double-doubles throughout the history of the NBA. Here are some of the most impressive examples:
- Kevin Garnett – Garnett recorded a double-double in every game during the 2003-04 season, an accomplishment that many thought was impossible.
- Shaquille O’Neal – O’Neal achieved a double-double in every game during his rookie season in 1992-93.
- Michael Jordan – Jordan recorded an incredible 8 triple-doubles during the 1988-89 season.
Tips for Achieving a Double-Double
If you are looking to get a double-double, here are some tips to help you get there:
- Focus on your ball handling and passing skills – good ball handling and passing will help you score and get assists.
- Work on your rebounding – rebounding is a key skill for getting a double-double.
- Improve your defensive play – good defensive play will help you get steals and blocks, which can lead to points and assists.
- Be in peak physical condition – you need to be in good physical condition to play the entire game and battle for rebounds and loose balls.
- Develop a strong mental game – you need to be able to stay composed and confident under pressure in order to make the big shots and plays.
Conclusion
Getting a double-double is not easy, but it is certainly possible. With the right combination of skills, dedication and hard work, any player can achieve this impressive feat.