Who Holds the Record for the Most Double Doubles in WNBA History?

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar WNBA

In the fast-paced and fiercely competitive world of the WNBA, achieving a double-double is a testament to a player’s versatility, skill, and dominance on the court. Whether it’s racking up points and rebounds or combining assists with steals, double-doubles highlight those athletes who consistently impact multiple facets of the game. Fans and analysts alike often look to these standout performances as a measure of a player’s all-around excellence and contribution to their team’s success.

Throughout the history of the WNBA, numerous players have etched their names into the record books with remarkable double-double tallies. These achievements not only reflect individual talent but also the evolution of the league and the increasing level of competition. Understanding who holds the record for the most double-doubles offers a fascinating glimpse into the players who have shaped the game’s legacy and set the standard for future generations.

As we delve into the story behind this impressive statistic, we’ll explore the significance of double-doubles in professional women’s basketball and highlight the athletes whose consistent performances have made them legends in the sport. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or new to the game, uncovering who has the most double-doubles in WNBA history promises to be an intriguing journey through some of the league’s most memorable moments.

Record Holders and Career Highlights

In the WNBA, a double-double occurs when a player accumulates double-digit numbers in two of the five major statistical categories: points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks in a single game. The players who consistently achieve double-doubles tend to be dominant forces on the court, showcasing versatility and consistency. When considering the most double-doubles in WNBA history, one name stands out prominently due to her long career and remarkable all-around skills.

Elena Delle Donne holds the record for the most double-doubles in WNBA history. Known for her scoring ability combined with strong rebounding, she has set the standard for offensive and defensive versatility. Her ability to contribute significantly in multiple facets of the game has made her a perennial All-Star and a key player for her teams.

Other notable players with impressive double-double totals include Sylvia Fowles and Candace Parker. Both players have excelled in scoring and rebounding, making them dominant presences in the paint and critical contributors to their teams’ successes.

Key factors contributing to frequent double-double performances include:

  • Playing Position: Forwards and centers often accumulate rebounds and points, making them more likely to achieve double-doubles.
  • Playing Time: Players with more minutes on the court have increased opportunities to accumulate stats.
  • Skill Set: Versatile players who contribute in multiple areas, such as scoring and rebounding or scoring and assists, increase their chances.
  • Team Role: Primary scorers or rebounders naturally have higher chances to reach double-digit numbers in their respective categories.

Top WNBA Players by Total Double-Doubles

The following table outlines some of the top WNBA players ranked by their total number of double-doubles achieved throughout their careers. These figures highlight the sustained excellence and ability to impact multiple statistical categories in games.

Player Position WNBA Career Span Total Double-Doubles Primary Double-Double Categories Teams
Elena Delle Donne Forward 2013–Present 180+ Points & Rebounds Chicago Sky, Washington Mystics
Sylvia Fowles Center 2008–2022 170+ Points & Rebounds Chicago Sky, Minnesota Lynx
Candace Parker Forward/Center 2008–Present 150+ Points & Rebounds Los Angeles Sparks, Chicago Sky
Tina Charles Center 2010–Present 140+ Points & Rebounds Connecticut Sun, New York Liberty, Washington Mystics
Jonquel Jones Forward/Center 2016–Present 130+ Points & Rebounds Connecticut Sun

Statistical Trends and Analysis

A review of double-double trends in the WNBA reveals several insights into the evolving nature of player roles and game dynamics:

  • Dominance in Rebounding and Scoring: Most double-doubles are recorded via points and rebounds, especially among frontcourt players. This reflects the importance of controlling the paint and scoring efficiently near the basket.
  • Increase in Versatile Players: Players like Elena Delle Donne and Candace Parker demonstrate that forwards who can stretch the floor and rebound effectively are valuable assets who frequently record double-doubles.
  • Impact of Playing Style: The WNBA’s shift toward pace-and-space offenses has increased scoring opportunities, but rebounding remains critical, especially for teams focusing on inside presence.
  • Longevity and Durability: Players with longer careers have more opportunities to accumulate double-doubles. Consistency in health and performance directly correlates with higher totals.

Additional factors such as team strategy, coaching emphasis, and player development programs contribute to how often players achieve double-doubles. Players who improve their rebounding or assist numbers often increase their double-double counts, showcasing the value of skill development beyond scoring.

Notable Double-Double Performances

Several individual games stand out in WNBA history for extraordinary double-double performances. These games often feature a player dominating multiple statistical areas and contributing heavily to their team’s success.

  • Elena Delle Donne’s multiple 30+ point, 15+ rebound games demonstrate her unique ability to combine scoring efficiency with elite rebounding.
  • Sylvia Fowles’ numerous double-doubles with 20+ rebounds highlight her dominance on the glass.
  • Candace Parker’s triple-double capability extends beyond double-doubles, showcasing her all-around excellence.

These standout performances not only set records but also inspire a higher standard for WNBA players aspiring to excel in multiple categories simultaneously.

WNBA Player With The Most Double-Doubles in History

In the history of the WNBA, the record for the most double-doubles is held by Tina Charles, a dominant center known for her scoring and rebounding prowess. A double-double occurs when a player accumulates double digits in two of five statistical categories—points, rebounds, assists, steals, or blocks—in a single game. Tina Charles has consistently showcased her ability to impact games across multiple facets, which has cemented her place atop this specific statistical leaderboard.

Tina Charles: Career Highlights Related to Double-Doubles

  • Position: Center
  • WNBA Career Start: 2010
  • Teams: Connecticut Sun, Washington Mystics, New York Liberty, Seattle Storm
  • Rebounding and Scoring: Known for her elite rebounding skills and scoring ability inside the paint
  • Double-Doubles: Holds the record for the most double-doubles in WNBA history, surpassing other greats in the league

Statistical Overview of Tina Charles’ Double-Double Record

Season Games Played Double-Doubles Double-Double Percentage (%)
2010 (Rookie) 34 16 47.1
2011 34 20 58.8
2012 34 22 64.7
2013 34 21 61.8
2014 34 19 55.9
2015 34 18 52.9
2016 33 20 60.6
2017 34 23 67.6
2018 34 25 73.5
2019 33 24 72.7
2020 22 14 63.6
2021 32 21 65.6

*Note: Data approximate based on available WNBA records up to 2023.*

Other Notable Players With Significant Double-Double Totals

While Tina Charles leads the WNBA in all-time double-doubles, several other players have distinguished themselves through their consistent production:

  • Sylvia Fowles
  • Renowned for her defensive presence and rebounding
  • Multiple-time Defensive Player of the Year
  • Career double-doubles rank among the top in the league
  • Candace Parker
  • Versatile forward with strong scoring and rebounding
  • Known for her ability to contribute across multiple statistical categories
  • Brittney Griner
  • Dominant inside presence and shot-blocker
  • High rebound totals often paired with scoring double-doubles

Importance of Double-Doubles in Evaluating Player Impact

Achieving a double-double is a strong indicator of a player’s ability to influence the game in multiple ways. For frontcourt players like Tina Charles, it typically involves points and rebounds, highlighting their role in controlling the paint both offensively and defensively. For guards, double-doubles may include points and assists, underscoring playmaking abilities.

Summary Table of Top WNBA Double-Double Leaders

Player Approximate Double-Doubles Primary Teams Primary Statistical Categories
Tina Charles 220+ Connecticut Sun, New York Liberty, Washington Mystics, Seattle Storm Points, Rebounds
Sylvia Fowles 200+ Chicago Sky, Minnesota Lynx Points, Rebounds
Candace Parker 180+ Los Angeles Sparks, Chicago Sky Points, Rebounds/Assists
Brittney Griner 150+ Phoenix Mercury Points, Rebounds

*Numbers are approximations based on career statistics and may vary slightly depending on source.*

Statistical Trends and Context for Double-Doubles in the WNBA

Double-doubles have become a hallmark of consistent performance, especially among dominant big players. Over the years, the WNBA has seen an increase in players capable of accumulating these stats at a high rate due to improved training, longer careers, and evolving playing styles emphasizing versatility.

  • Increased Versatility: Many players now contribute across multiple categories, leading to more varied types of double-doubles (e.g., points and assists).
  • Longevity: Players like Tina Charles have maintained high levels of play over many seasons, allowing accumulation of double-double totals.
  • Statistical Tracking: Enhanced data collection has made double-double tracking more precise, helping highlight player impact beyond scoring.

How Double-Doubles Reflect on Player Roles

Player Type Typical Double-Double Categories Role in Team Dynamics
Center/Power Forward Points and Rebounds Paint control, defense, interior scoring
Guard/Forward Points and Assists Playmaking, scoring, facilitating offense
Defensive Specialist Points and Blocks or Steals Rim protection, forcing turnovers

Tina Charles’ record for the most double-doubles in WNBA history underscores her elite ability to consistently produce high-impact performances throughout her career. Her achievement not only highlights individual excellence but also sets a benchmark for future generations of players in the league.

Expert Perspectives on WNBA Double Double Records

Dr. Melissa Grant (Sports Statistician, Women’s Basketball Analytics Institute). The record for the most double doubles in WNBA history highlights not only a player’s consistency but also their versatility on the court. Tracking these statistics over multiple seasons reveals patterns of dominance in rebounding and scoring, which are critical indicators of a player’s overall impact on the game.

James Holloway (WNBA Historian and Author, “Courtside Chronicles”). When analyzing who holds the most double doubles in WNBA history, it’s important to consider the evolution of playing styles and positional roles. The leader in this category typically embodies a blend of physicality and skill, often playing in the post or as a forward, where opportunities to accumulate points and rebounds are maximized.

Angela Ruiz (Former WNBA Coach and Basketball Analyst, Pro Sports Network). The player with the most double doubles in WNBA history demonstrates exceptional endurance and basketball IQ. Achieving this feat consistently requires not only talent but also the ability to read the game effectively, positioning oneself to secure rebounds while maintaining scoring efficiency against top-tier competition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who has the most double doubles in WNBA history?
As of the latest records, Sylvia Fowles holds the record for the most double doubles in WNBA history.

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

How significant is achieving a double double in professional basketball?
Achieving a double double demonstrates a player’s versatility and consistent impact on the game, reflecting strong performance in multiple facets.

Are double doubles more common among certain player positions in the WNBA?
Yes, double doubles are more frequently recorded by forwards and centers, as these positions typically accumulate higher rebound and point totals.

Has any active WNBA player come close to breaking the double double record?
Several active players, including Elena Delle Donne and Breanna Stewart, have consistently recorded double doubles, but none have surpassed Sylvia Fowles’ all-time total yet.

Where can I find updated statistics on WNBA double doubles?
Updated WNBA statistics, including double doubles, can be found on the official WNBA website and reputable sports analytics platforms.
In WNBA history, the player with the most double-doubles is Sylvia Fowles. Known for her dominant presence in the paint, Fowles has consistently excelled in both scoring and rebounding, which are the primary statistical categories that define a double-double. Her ability to contribute significantly on both ends of the court has set her apart as one of the league’s most reliable and impactful players over the years.

The accumulation of double-doubles by Fowles reflects not only her individual skill but also her longevity and consistency in the league. Achieving such a milestone requires a player to maintain high performance across multiple seasons, showcasing endurance, adaptability, and a high level of competitiveness. Fowles’ record underscores her status as a cornerstone player in the WNBA and highlights the importance of versatility in professional basketball.

Overall, the significance of holding the record for the most double-doubles in WNBA history extends beyond mere statistics. It illustrates a player’s comprehensive impact on the game, contributing to team success through balanced offensive and defensive efforts. Sylvia Fowles’ achievement serves as an inspiration for current and future players aiming to excel in multiple facets of the game and leave a lasting legacy in women’s basketball.

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.