Quadruple-Double

What is a Quadruple-Double in Basketball?

A quadruple-double in basketball is an exceptional accomplishment that signifies a strong all-around performance by a player. This rare feat occurs when a player manages to achieve double-digit figures in four out of the five major statistical categories during a single game. The categories consist of points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. Quadruple-doubles showcase a player’s versatility and ability to contribute towards the success of their team in various ways.

The first player in NBA history to record a quadruple-double was Nate Thurmond back on October 18, 1974, in an overtime win against the Atlanta Hawks. Thurmond’s outstanding performance included 22 points, 14 rebounds, 13 assists, and 12 blocks, marking the beginning of quadruple-doubles in basketball history. Since then, only three other NBA players have managed to achieve this feat, making it an elusive accomplishment that highlights the player’s extraordinary skills and talent.

Definition of a Quadruple-Double

Statistical Requirements

A quadruple-double is a remarkable accomplishment in basketball, where a player achieves double-digit figures in at least four of the five main statistical categories during a single game. These categories include:

• Points
• Rebounds
• Assists
• Steals
• Blocks

To put it into perspective, a player would need to record at least 10 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists, and 10 steals or blocks in a single game to achieve a quadruple-double.

Rarity in the Game

The quadruple-double is an extremely rare feat in basketball due to the high level of skill and versatility required for a player to excel in multiple categories. In NBA history, only four players have ever recorded a quadruple-double:

1. Nate Thurmond – October 18, 1974
2. Alvin Robertson – February 18, 1986
3. Hakeem Olajuwon – March 29, 1990
4. David Robinson – February 17, 1994

The rarity of this achievement highlights the exceptional performance and all-around abilities of the players who have accomplished it. Due to its scarcity, a quadruple-double is often considered one of the most prestigious milestones in the sport of basketball.

Notable Quadruple-Double Performances

A quadruple-double in basketball is a rare and exceptional achievement. It occurs when a player records double-digit figures in four of the five major statistical categories—points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks—in a single game. There have been only four recorded instances of quadruple-doubles in NBA history:

1. Nate Thurmond: On October 18, 1974, Nate Thurmond became the first player to achieve this feat in a game against the Atlanta Hawks. Thurmond’s standout performance consisted of 22 points, 14 rebounds, 13 assists, and 12 blocks.

2. Alvin Robertson: The second player to accomplish a quadruple-double, Alvin Robertson, secured his place in history on February 18, 1986. As a 6-foot-3 guard, Robertson recorded 20 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists, and 10 steals.

It is worth noting that the last recorded quadruple-double occurred nearly 30 years ago, demonstrating the sheer difficulty and rarity of this accomplishment in the NBA.

While triple-doubles are more common and typically arise from offensive contributions, quadruple-doubles necessitate 10 or more stats in the challenging block and steals categories, making it all the more remarkable. The players who have achieved quadruple-doubles are celebrated and revered for their exceptional skills and determination on the court.