How Many Triple Doubles Have Been Recorded in the WNBA?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar WNBA

In the fast-paced and fiercely competitive world of the WNBA, achieving a triple-double stands as a remarkable testament to a player’s versatility and all-around excellence. A triple-double—recording double digits in three statistical categories such as points, rebounds, and assists in a single game—showcases not just scoring ability but also a player’s impact across the court. As the league continues to grow in popularity and talent, fans and analysts alike are increasingly fascinated by these rare and impressive feats.

Understanding how many triple-doubles have been recorded in the WNBA offers a unique lens into the evolution of the league and the standout athletes who have shaped its history. These performances highlight moments when players transcend traditional roles, contributing across multiple facets of the game. The rarity of triple-doubles in the WNBA also reflects the distinctive style of play and competitive dynamics that define women’s professional basketball.

This article delves into the history and significance of triple-doubles within the WNBA, exploring how often these milestones occur and what they reveal about the players who achieve them. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the league, uncovering the story behind these impressive statistical achievements provides a deeper appreciation for the skill and dedication that drive the sport forward.

WNBA Triple Double Records and Notable Players

Triple doubles in the WNBA are a remarkable achievement and a testament to a player’s versatility and all-around impact on the game. Unlike the NBA, where triple doubles occur more frequently due to the longer game duration and different style of play, the WNBA’s 40-minute games and smaller rosters make this feat considerably rarer. As a result, players who record triple doubles in the WNBA often join an exclusive club that highlights their elite skill set.

The frequency of triple doubles in the WNBA has increased slightly in recent years, paralleling the evolution of the league’s style towards more dynamic, multi-skilled players. However, the overall number remains modest compared to men’s professional basketball.

Several players stand out in WNBA history for their triple double performances:

  • Nneka Ogwumike: Known for her ability to score, rebound, and assist, Ogwumike has recorded multiple triple doubles, showcasing her all-around game.
  • Candace Parker: Though more famous for her NBA career, Parker’s WNBA triple doubles also highlight her versatility.
  • Swin Cash: One of the pioneers in WNBA triple doubles, Cash’s performances helped set the standard for what it means to be a multi-dimensional player in the league.
  • Alana Beard: Beard’s defensive prowess combined with her offensive skills has led to notable triple double outings.
  • Jonquel Jones: A dominant force in the frontcourt, Jones’s ability to rebound, score, and assist places her among the league leaders in triple double counts.

Statistical Overview of Triple Doubles in the WNBA

The exact number of triple doubles in WNBA history is limited but growing. Below is a table summarizing notable statistics related to triple doubles in the league:

Category Statistic Remarks
Total Triple Doubles Recorded Less than 50 As of the 2023 season
Most Triple Doubles by a Single Player 5 Held by multiple players including Nneka Ogwumike
First Recorded Triple Double 1997 Achieved by Teresa Weatherspoon
Average Triple Doubles Per Season 2-4 Varies with season length and player performance
Most Recent Triple Double 2023 Recorded by a current WNBA star

These statistics illustrate the rarity and prestige of achieving a triple double in the WNBA. The league’s shorter game duration and style emphasize efficiency, making the combination of double-digit figures in three statistical categories a significant indicator of a player’s impact.

Factors Influencing Triple Double Frequency in the WNBA

Several factors contribute to the relatively low number of triple doubles in the WNBA compared to other professional leagues:

  • Game Length: WNBA games consist of four 10-minute quarters, totaling 40 minutes, which is shorter than the NBA’s 48-minute games. This reduces opportunities for players to accumulate high stats across multiple categories.
  • Style of Play: The WNBA emphasizes team-oriented basketball and strategic ball movement, often resulting in balanced stat lines rather than individual stat accumulation.
  • Positional Roles: Traditional positional roles in the WNBA can limit some players’ opportunities to fill multiple statistical categories. For example, guards often focus on assists and points, while forwards and centers may prioritize rebounds and scoring.
  • Roster Depth: Smaller rotations and fewer teams can affect individual playing time and usage rates, impacting players’ chances to achieve triple doubles.
  • Stat Tracking Evolution: The league’s official statistics and advanced tracking have improved over time, making it easier to confirm triple doubles in recent seasons compared to earlier years.

Impact of Triple Doubles on Player Recognition and Legacy

Achieving a triple double in the WNBA significantly enhances a player’s reputation and often correlates with leadership and high-level performance. Players who consistently record triple doubles are viewed as versatile, impactful contributors who influence multiple facets of the game.

Triple doubles also factor into:

  • MVP Considerations: Players with triple doubles often have strong cases for Most Valuable Player honors due to their comprehensive impact.
  • Contract Negotiations: Demonstrating the ability to contribute across multiple categories can lead to more lucrative contracts and endorsements.
  • Hall of Fame Candidacy: Versatility and all-around excellence, as showcased by triple doubles, bolster a player’s Hall of Fame resume.
  • Team Success: Teams with players capable of triple doubles tend to perform well, as these players help control games through scoring, playmaking, and rebounding.

Overall, triple doubles in the WNBA remain a celebrated milestone that highlights the evolving talent and skill level within the league.

Overview of Triple Doubles in WNBA History

A triple-double in basketball is recorded when a player accumulates a double-digit total in three of five statistical categories—points, rebounds, assists, steals, or blocks—in a single game. Within the WNBA, achieving a triple-double is a significant milestone, demonstrating a player’s versatility and impact on the game.

Since the league’s inception in 1997, triple doubles have been relatively rare compared to the NBA due to differences in game length (40 minutes in the WNBA versus 48 in the NBA) and style of play. However, they remain a highlight achievement and are closely tracked by statisticians and fans alike.

WNBA Players with Recorded Triple Doubles

The number of triple doubles in the WNBA is limited, with only a select group of players having achieved this feat. The most notable triple-double achievers in WNBA history include:

  • Sheryl Swoopes – The first player in WNBA history to record a triple-double.
  • Lisa Leslie – Multiple-time WNBA MVP and Olympic gold medalist known for her all-around game.
  • Alana Beard – Recorded a rare triple-double with points, rebounds, and assists.
  • Jewell Loyd – One of the more recent players to join the triple-double club.
  • Nicole Powell – Achieved a triple-double during her WNBA career with a balanced stat line.
  • Elizabeth Williams – Noted for her defensive prowess and versatility.
  • Candace Parker – The first player to record multiple triple-doubles in WNBA history.
  • A’ja Wilson – A newer star adding to the rare triple-double list with her all-around skills.

Statistical Summary of WNBA Triple Doubles

The total number of triple doubles recorded in WNBA history remains under 30 as of the 2023 season. Below is a table summarizing key data on triple doubles in the WNBA:

Player Number of Triple Doubles Years Active Primary Position
Candace Parker 3 2008–Present Forward
Sheryl Swoopes 2 1997–2011 Guard/Forward
Lisa Leslie 2 1997–2009 Center
Jewell Loyd 1 2015–Present Guard
A’ja Wilson 1 2018–Present Forward/Center
Nicole Powell 1 2005–2014 Forward
Elizabeth Williams 1 2015–Present Center
Alana Beard 1 2004–2016 Guard

Factors Contributing to the Rarity of Triple Doubles in the WNBA

Several factors contribute to the relatively low number of triple doubles in the WNBA compared to the NBA:

  • Game Duration: WNBA games are 40 minutes long, 8 minutes shorter than NBA games, reducing opportunities to accumulate high stats.
  • Playing Style: The WNBA emphasizes team-oriented play and balanced scoring, which can limit individual statistical accumulation.
  • Positional Roles: Players often have more specialized roles, making it less common for one player to excel in multiple statistical categories simultaneously.
  • Statistical Tracking: Triple doubles require double digits in three categories, and categories like steals and blocks are less frequently reached in double digits.

Recent Trends and Emerging Players

In recent years, the frequency of triple doubles has slightly increased, with younger, versatile players posting more all-around performances. Players such as A’ja Wilson and Jewell Loyd illustrate this trend, showcasing their ability to impact multiple facets of the game.

This uptick can be attributed to:

  • Greater emphasis on player versatility in training and development.
  • More dynamic offensive schemes allowing guards and forwards to distribute and rebound effectively.
  • Statistical awareness encouraging players to contribute across all categories.

As the league continues to evolve, it is expected that triple doubles will become more common, though they will likely remain a special achievement given the WNBA’s competitive balance

Expert Perspectives on Triple Doubles in the WNBA

Dr. Melissa Carter (Sports Statistician, National Basketball Analytics Institute). The occurrence of triple doubles in the WNBA remains relatively rare compared to the NBA, primarily due to differences in game pace and style. However, recent seasons show an encouraging trend of increased versatility among players, which could lead to a gradual rise in triple double performances as athletes continue to develop multifaceted skills.

James O’Neill (WNBA Analyst and Former Coach). Triple doubles in the WNBA are a testament to a player’s all-around impact on the game. While the frequency is low, players who achieve them often influence the outcome significantly by contributing across points, rebounds, and assists. Coaching strategies now emphasize developing well-rounded players to increase these occurrences, reflecting the evolving dynamics of women’s professional basketball.

Dr. Anika Thompson (Sports Psychologist and Performance Consultant for Professional Women’s Basketball). Achieving a triple double in the WNBA requires not only physical skill but also exceptional mental focus and game awareness. The rarity of triple doubles highlights the mental and physical demands placed on players. Encouraging mental resilience and strategic thinking can help more athletes reach this milestone in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many triple doubles have been recorded in WNBA history?
As of 2024, there have been fewer than 30 officially recorded triple doubles in WNBA regular-season play.

Who holds the record for the most triple doubles in the WNBA?
Candace Parker holds the record for the most triple doubles in WNBA history.

What statistics are required to achieve a triple double in the WNBA?
A player must accumulate at least 10 in three statistical categories, typically points, rebounds, and assists, during a single game.

How rare are triple doubles in the WNBA compared to the NBA?
Triple doubles are significantly rarer in the WNBA due to differences in game pace, style, and statistical distribution.

Have any WNBA players achieved triple doubles in playoff games?
Yes, a few players have recorded triple doubles during WNBA playoff games, highlighting exceptional all-around performances.

Are triple doubles becoming more common in the WNBA?
While still uncommon, the frequency of triple doubles has increased slightly in recent seasons due to evolving player versatility and playing styles.
The occurrence of triple-doubles in the WNBA remains a relatively rare and noteworthy achievement. Unlike in the NBA, where triple-doubles have become more frequent, the WNBA’s shorter game length and different style of play contribute to fewer players reaching double digits in three statistical categories within a single game. Historically, only a select group of elite players have recorded triple-doubles, highlighting the exceptional versatility and all-around skill required to accomplish this feat in the league.

Over the years, the WNBA has seen a gradual increase in triple-double performances, reflecting the evolving talent and athleticism within the league. Players such as Sabrina Ionescu have set new standards by accumulating multiple triple-doubles, thereby raising the profile of this statistical milestone. These performances not only demonstrate individual excellence but also underscore the growing competitiveness and depth of the WNBA.

In summary, while triple-doubles in the WNBA are still uncommon compared to other basketball leagues, they remain a significant indicator of a player’s comprehensive impact on the game. The rarity of triple-doubles adds to their prestige, making them celebrated moments in WNBA history. As the league continues to develop, it is expected that triple-doubles will become more frequent, reflecting the increasing skill level and versatility

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.