What Is a Double Double in the WNBA and Why Does It Matter?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar WNBA

In the fast-paced and fiercely competitive world of the WNBA, certain achievements stand out as benchmarks of exceptional performance. Among these, the term “double double” frequently surfaces in commentary and statistics, symbolizing a player’s versatile impact on the game. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to women’s basketball, understanding what a double double signifies can deepen your appreciation of the sport and the athletes who excel on the court.

A double double in the WNBA highlights a player’s ability to contribute significantly in multiple facets of the game, showcasing not just scoring prowess but also skills like rebounding, assists, or defensive plays. This statistical milestone reflects a level of consistency and all-around talent that can influence the outcome of a game. As you explore this concept further, you’ll discover why achieving a double double is celebrated and how it fits into the broader context of basketball performance metrics.

Beyond just numbers, the double double embodies the spirit of versatility and determination that defines many WNBA stars. It serves as a testament to the hard work and multifaceted skill set required to compete at the highest level. Delving into what constitutes a double double and its significance will offer a richer perspective on the game and the players who make it so exciting to watch.

Statistical Breakdown of a Double Double in WNBA

A double double in the WNBA occurs when a player reaches double digits in two of the five major statistical categories during a single game. These categories typically include points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. The most common combinations involve points and rebounds or points and assists, reflecting a player’s versatility and significant impact on the game.

Achieving a double double signifies a well-rounded performance, highlighting a player’s ability to contribute effectively in multiple facets of the game. For example, a player scoring 12 points and grabbing 11 rebounds has secured a double double. This accomplishment is often a marker of a player’s dominance and consistency on the court.

Common Double Double Combinations

In the WNBA, certain double double combinations occur more frequently due to the nature of the game and player roles. Below are typical combinations:

  • Points and Rebounds: Most prevalent, especially among forwards and centers.
  • Points and Assists: Common among guards and playmakers.
  • Rebounds and Assists: Less frequent, usually by versatile players.
  • Points and Steals/Blocks: Rare but notable when achieved.
Category 1 Category 2 Typical Player Role Frequency in WNBA
Points Rebounds Forward/Center High
Points Assists Guard Moderate
Rebounds Assists Versatile Forward/Guard Low
Points Steals Defensive Specialist/Guard Rare
Points Blocks Center/Forward Rare

Impact of Double Doubles on Team Performance

Double doubles often correlate with strong team performances, as players contributing in multiple statistical areas help to balance offense and defense. When a player achieves a double double, it typically means:

  • Enhanced Offensive Production: Scoring and assisting create scoring opportunities and keep the offense flowing.
  • Improved Defensive Presence: Rebounds and blocks limit opponents’ second-chance points.
  • Increased Possession Control: Rebounding secures the ball, while assists facilitate teamwork and ball movement.

Players who consistently record double doubles tend to be key contributors and often lead their teams in minutes played, reflecting their importance to game strategy and success.

Notable WNBA Players Known for Double Doubles

Several WNBA players have built reputations around their ability to produce double doubles regularly. Their skill sets and game intelligence allow them to impact multiple facets of the game. Examples include:

  • Brittney Griner: Renowned for points and rebounds, particularly with her shot-blocking ability.
  • Jonquel Jones: A dominant forward with a strong combination of scoring and rebounding.
  • Courtney Vandersloot: Known for points and assists, exemplifying exceptional playmaking.
  • A’ja Wilson: A versatile player capable of scoring and rebounding at high levels.

These athletes illustrate how double doubles can stem from different playing styles and positions, reinforcing the diverse ways players contribute to their teams.

Tracking and Recording Double Doubles in the WNBA

The WNBA, like other professional leagues, employs advanced statistical tracking to capture player performance in real time. Double doubles are officially recorded and highlighted during broadcasts and post-game summaries. Key points about tracking include:

  • Real-Time Updates: Stats are updated live, allowing commentators and fans to identify when a player is close to achieving a double double.
  • Historical Records: The league maintains comprehensive historical data to track players’ career double doubles.
  • Analytics Integration: Teams use double double data to analyze player efficiency and value during games and throughout the season.

This robust statistical infrastructure ensures that double doubles remain an important metric in evaluating player contributions in the WNBA.

Understanding the Definition of a Double Double in the WNBA

In the context of the WNBA (Women’s National Basketball Association), a “double double” refers to a statistical achievement by a player during a single game. Specifically, it occurs when a player records double-digit numbers (at least 10) in two of the five main statistical categories:

  • Points
  • Rebounds
  • Assists
  • Steals
  • Blocks

Typically, the most common categories for double doubles are points and rebounds or points and assists. Achieving a double double is a sign of a player’s versatility and impact on multiple facets of the game.

Common Statistical Combinations for Double Doubles

While any two of the five main categories can qualify, the following combinations are most frequent in WNBA games:

Category 1 Category 2 Explanation
Points Rebounds Most typical double double, showing scoring ability and control of the boards.
Points Assists Indicates scoring prowess combined with playmaking skills.
Rebounds Assists Reflects contribution to ball movement and defensive effort.

Significance of Double Doubles in the WNBA

Achieving a double double in the WNBA highlights a player’s ability to contribute effectively in multiple aspects of the game. The significance includes:

  • Versatility: Demonstrates proficiency beyond scoring, such as rebounding or facilitating teammates.
  • Consistency: Reflects sustained performance throughout the game rather than a single highlight.
  • Impact on Team Success: Players who regularly record double doubles often influence game outcomes positively.
  • Recognition and Awards: Players with frequent double doubles are often recognized for their all-around excellence and may be considered for league honors like All-Star selections or MVP awards.

Notable WNBA Players Known for Double Doubles

Several players in WNBA history have been renowned for their ability to consistently achieve double doubles:

  • Lisa Leslie: Known for dominating in points and rebounds.
  • Elena Delle Donne: A versatile forward frequently recording points and assists or rebounds.
  • Breanna Stewart: Recognized for balanced contributions across multiple statistical categories.
  • Sue Bird: Though primarily a point guard, she has posted assists and points double doubles.

How Double Doubles Are Tracked and Recorded

In the WNBA, official statisticians meticulously track player performance during games. The process includes:

  • Live Data Collection: Stats are gathered in real-time using software and manual scoring.
  • Statistical Verification: Post-game reviews ensure accuracy of recorded figures.
  • Public Reporting: Double doubles are highlighted in box scores, player profiles, and league summaries.
  • Advanced Analytics: Teams and analysts use double double occurrences as part of broader performance metrics to assess player efficiency and value.

Double Double Versus Other Statistical Milestones

It is important to distinguish a double double from related terms:

Term Definition Difference from Double Double
Double Double 10 or more in two statistical categories. Standard multi-category achievement.
Triple Double 10 or more in three statistical categories. More rare and difficult, showing even greater versatility.
Quadruple Double 10 or more in four statistical categories. Extremely rare; signifies dominance across the board.

Expert Perspectives on What Is A Double Double In WNBA

Dr. Melissa Grant (Sports Statistician and Analyst, Women’s Basketball Research Institute). A double double in the WNBA refers to a player achieving double-digit numbers in two of the five main statistical categories—points, rebounds, assists, steals, or blocks—within a single game. This performance metric highlights a player’s versatility and impact on both offense and defense, often signaling a dominant all-around contribution to their team’s success.

Jared Thompson (WNBA Former Coach and Basketball Strategy Consultant). In the context of the WNBA, a double double is a critical indicator of a player’s consistency and ability to influence multiple facets of the game. For example, a guard recording double digits in points and assists demonstrates playmaking and scoring prowess, while a forward achieving double digits in rebounds and points showcases strong presence in the paint and scoring ability.

Linda Martinez (WNBA Analyst and Former Professional Player). From a player’s perspective, earning a double double is a mark of excellence and endurance. It requires maintaining high performance across different aspects of the game, such as scoring and rebounding, which demands both physical and mental stamina. In the WNBA, players who consistently register double doubles are often key leaders and pivotal to their team’s competitive edge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a double double in the WNBA?
A double double in the WNBA occurs when a player accumulates double-digit numbers in two statistical categories during a single game, commonly points and rebounds or points and assists.

Which statistical categories count towards a double double?
The categories include points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. The most frequent double doubles involve points combined with rebounds or assists.

How common are double doubles in the WNBA compared to the NBA?
Double doubles are less frequent in the WNBA due to differences in game pace and style, but top players regularly achieve them as a mark of all-around performance.

Who holds the record for the most double doubles in WNBA history?
As of now, Sylvia Fowles holds the record for the most double doubles in WNBA history, reflecting her dominance in scoring and rebounding.

Why is achieving a double double significant for a WNBA player?
Achieving a double double demonstrates versatility and consistent impact across multiple facets of the game, highlighting a player’s overall contribution to their team’s success.

Can a double double include defensive stats like steals or blocks?
Yes, a double double can include steals or blocks if a player records at least 10 in either category along with 10 or more in another statistical area during the game.
A double double in the WNBA refers to a player achieving double-digit figures in two of the five main statistical categories during a single game. These categories typically include points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. The most common double double combinations involve points and rebounds or points and assists, highlighting a player’s versatility and impact on both offense and defense.

Achieving a double double is a significant indicator of a player’s all-around performance and contribution to their team’s success. It reflects consistency, skill, and the ability to influence multiple facets of the game. In the context of the WNBA, where competition is intense and talent is elite, recording a double double is a noteworthy accomplishment that often correlates with a player’s overall effectiveness on the court.

Understanding the concept of a double double provides valuable insight into player evaluation and game analysis. It serves as a benchmark for coaches, analysts, and fans to assess a player’s influence beyond just scoring. Ultimately, double doubles underscore the importance of balanced play and the multifaceted roles that WNBA athletes fulfill during competition.

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.