Double-double

Definition

A double-double is a term used in basketball to describe a player who achieves double digits in two statistical categories during a game, typically points and rebounds or points and assists. This achievement showcases a player's versatility and ability to contribute significantly on both ends of the court, reflecting their overall skill set and importance to the team’s performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Achieving a double-double is often seen as a mark of a well-rounded player and can greatly enhance their value in games.
2. Common combinations for double-doubles include points and rebounds or points and assists, but any two statistical categories can qualify.
3. Players who frequently achieve double-doubles are often key contributors to their team's success and are usually considered for awards or accolades.
4. Tracking double-doubles can provide insights into a player's consistency and overall impact on games beyond just scoring.
5. Some legendary players, like Magic Johnson and Russell Westbrook, are renowned for their ability to record numerous double-doubles throughout their careers.

Review Questions

• How does achieving a double-double impact a player's evaluation in basketball?
  • Achieving a double-double significantly enhances a player's evaluation because it demonstrates their versatility and ability to contribute in multiple areas. This achievement reflects not only scoring ability but also proficiency in critical aspects such as rebounding or assisting. Coaches and analysts often view players who can achieve double-doubles as invaluable assets to their teams, indicating they can affect the game's outcome positively.
• Compare the significance of a double-double to that of a triple-double in terms of player performance metrics.
  • While both double-doubles and triple-doubles indicate high levels of player performance, a triple-double is typically viewed as more impressive due to the requirement of reaching double digits in three different statistical categories. A double-double shows strong contributions in two areas, which is crucial, but achieving a triple-double reflects exceptional versatility and control over various aspects of the game. Players who consistently attain triple-doubles may be recognized as elite performers compared to those who only reach double-doubles.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of regularly achieving double-doubles on a player's career trajectory and market value.
  • Regularly achieving double-doubles can have significant long-term implications for a player's career trajectory and market value. Players known for their ability to consistently record double-doubles are often seen as stars and are likely to attract attention from teams looking for impactful players. This consistent performance can lead to higher salaries, endorsement deals, and potential Hall of Fame consideration, as coaches and franchises prioritize players who can deliver comprehensive contributions during games.

Related terms

Triple-Double: A triple-double occurs when a player reaches double digits in three statistical categories, such as points, rebounds, and assists, during a single game.

Points per Game (PPG): A statistic that indicates the average number of points a player scores per game over a specified period.

Rebounds: Rebounds are statistics that indicate the number of times a player retrieves the ball after a missed shot, essential for gaining possession.