What is a Triple-Double?

So, you’ve recently started following the NBA. You’ve picked a team, bought a jersey, learnt how to bet on the NBA. What now?

Well, it’d probably be smart to learn the rules and all the different terminology. Luckily for you, here at Sportsbet we’re committed to educating the next generation of sports fans.

That’s why we’re about to teach all you budding basketball fans exactly what is a triple-double.

Pull up a seat, grab your notebook, class is now in session. Today’s topic – what is a triple-double?

What is a Triple-Double in Basketball?

Before we can illustrate exactly what a triple-double is, it’s important to highlight that there are five key metrics every basketball player is judged by at the end of a game.

These are points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. The more you get of these, the better.

A triple-double relates to a player recording double digits in three of these key metrics. For example, 10 points, 10 assists and 10 rebounds.

The most common kind of triple-double is the one listed above, one consisting of points, assists and rebounds.

But a triple-double can be made up of any of the five main stats. So yes, it’s possible to get a quadruple-double and a quintuple-double, but that’s a lesson for another day.

Who Has the Most Triple-Doubles in NBA History?

There are a number of records relating to triple-doubles in the NBA. Prolific point guard Russell Westbrook currently holds the record for the most triple-doubles in NBA history.

The recently retired Westbrook finished with 20 regular season triple-doubles, he surpassed Oscar Robertson in 2021, who previously held the record with 181.

The first ever triple-double was recorded in 1950 by Andy Phillip for the Philadelphia Warriors. While Serbian sensation Nikola Jokic currently holds the record for the fastest ever triple-double, recording the feat in just 14 minutes and 33 seconds in a game against the Bucks in 2018.

Who is the Youngest NBA Player to Record a Triple-Double?

Believe it or not, our very own Josh Giddey currently holds the record as the youngest player in NBA history to record a triple-double.

Giddey recorded 17 points, 14 assists and 13 rebounds for the Oklahoma City Thunder against the Dallas Mavericks in early 2022.

The Aussie phenom was only 19 years, 2 months and 23 days old at the time. His masterclass against the Mavericks ensured he eclipsed LaMelo Ball, who previously held the record at 19 years, 10 months and 17 days old.