In the world of basketball, achieving an NBA double double is a mark of consistency, dominance, and elite performance. This rare feat of recording double digits in two statistical categories shows a player’s all-around impact on the game.
While many stars have accomplished it occasionally, only a few legends turned it into a career-long habit. These players dominated the boards, dished out assists, or scored relentlessly, becoming staples in NBA picks and fantasy lineups alike.
Fans and analysts alike value the NBA double double as a reliable indicator of game control. Whether it’s points and rebounds or assists and steals, these stats shape wins.
Therefore, identifying the all-time leaders in this category highlights the athletes who consistently influenced outcomes. From towering big men in the paint to versatile guards on the perimeter, the league’s history is filled with names who lived in the stat sheets.
In this list, we rank the 10 Best NBA Double Double Leaders of All Time. These are players who combined skill, durability, and dominance. As you explore these legends, you’ll also gain insights that may influence future NBA picks.
Let’s break down the greatness and consistency that defined these statistical titans of the hardwood. Note that all NBA double doubles listed here refer only to regular season performances.
Patrick Ewing: One of the Best Knicks to Ever Do It
Number of Double Doubles: 580
Career Stats: 21.0 PPG, 9.8 RPG, 1.9 APG; 50.4 FG%, 15.2 3FG%, 74.0 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (1985-86), 11x NBA All-Star, 11x All-NBA selections
Patrick Ewing ranks 10th among the best NBA double double leaders because of his unmatched consistency and dominance in the paint. Over his 17-year career, Ewing recorded 580 regular season double-doubles, placing him among the elite big men in NBA history.
As the face of the New York Knicks in the 1980s and 1990s, Ewing delivered night after night. His ability to score efficiently and rebound relentlessly made him a two-way threat. In fact, he averaged a double-double in ten different seasons, cementing his status as one of the best Knicks players ever.
Ewing combined size, agility, and mid-range shooting to keep defenses guessing. At the same time, his rebounding and shot-blocking anchored the Knicks’ defense. While he faced tough competition from centers like Hakeem Olajuwon and David Robinson, Ewing never backed down.
His double-double totals reflect his durability and work ethic. Even without an NBA title, his numbers speak volumes about his greatness. Ewing’s presence in the top 10 proves that consistent excellence defines legacy.
Today, Patrick Ewing remains a symbol of toughness, loyalty, and elite performance. These are key traits that make him one of the best Knicks players in history.
LeBron James: The King Amasses Doubles Doubles
Number of Double Doubles: 605
Career Stats: 27.0 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 7.4 APG; 50.6 FG%, 34.9 3FG%, 73.7 FT%
Notable Accomplishments: 4x NBA Champion, 4x Finals MVP, 4x MVP, 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (2003-04), 21x All-Star, 28x All-NBA selections
LeBron James ranks 9th among the best NBA double double leaders with 605 regular season double-doubles and counting. His place reflects unmatched longevity, versatility, and elite basketball IQ.
As one of the best NBA small forwards ever, LeBron impacts the game in every possible way. This includes scoring, rebounding, and distributing the ball throughout the course of a game. He consistently posts double-doubles in points and assists or points and rebounds. Even at age 40, he remains a nightly triple-double threat.
LeBron’s physical strength, vision, and court awareness separate him from others. He reads defenses effortlessly and attacks mismatches with precision. This all-around dominance keeps his name active in MVP talks and NBA odds projections every season.
Moreover, LeBron thrives under pressure, often elevating his game during clutch moments. His leadership and consistent production have shaped championship runs with three different teams.
Though he plays a perimeter position, he rebounds like a forward and passes like a point guard. That versatility fuels his spot in the double-double elite.
With every season, LeBron continues to add to his legacy. His 605 double-doubles only highlight one part of a legendary career that redefines what best NBA small forwards can achieve.
Charles Barkley: The Round Mound of Rebound Sticks True to his Nickname
Number of Double Doubles: 710
Career Stats: 22.1 PPG, 11.7 RPG, 3.9 APG; 54.1 FG%, 26.6 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 1x MVP, 11x NBA All-Star, 12x All-NBA selections
Charles Barkley ranks 8th among the best NBA double double leaders, finishing his career with 710 regular season double-doubles. Known for his fierce competitiveness and strength, Barkley dominated inside despite standing only 6-foot-6.
As one of the best NBA power forwards, he consistently overpowered taller opponents with his quickness, footwork, and elite rebounding instincts. Barkley averaged a double-double in 15 of his 16 seasons, showing unmatched consistency throughout his career.
He grabbed rebounds in traffic and scored efficiently from inside and mid-range. His scoring touch and relentless effort made him unstoppable.
Barkley’s high basketball IQ and vision also allowed him to excel as a passer, further boosting his overall impact. He was not just a scorer and rebounder – he led by example and played with heart.
His ability to post double-doubles against Hall of Fame big men proved his elite status. Even in the playoffs, Barkley regularly put up massive stat lines.
Though he never won a title, his individual brilliance secured his place among the game’s greats. His 710 double-doubles reflect his grit, talent, and consistency.
Barkley remains a defining example of how effort and skill can elevate any player into the ranks of the best NBA power forwards.
John Stockton: Scoring and Dishing Dimes
Number of Double Doubles: 714
Career Stats: 13.1 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 10.5 APG; 51.5 FG%, 38.4 3FG%, 82.6 FT%
Notable Achievements: 11× All-NBA selections, 10× All-Star, 5× All-Defensive 2nd Team selections, NBA All-Time Leader in Assists (15,806) and Steals (3,265
John Stockton ranks 7th among the best NBA double double leaders, recording 714 regular season double-doubles over his 19-year career.
As one of the best NBA point guards ever, Stockton controlled the tempo and elevated everyone around him. He consistently posted double-doubles in points and assists, showcasing his playmaking brilliance.
Stockton leads all-time NBA assist leaders with 15,806 assists. This is an untouchable record that proves his elite vision and decision-making. He also leads in career steals.
His durability and consistency were unmatched. Stockton missed only 22 games in his entire career, showing his incredible commitment and conditioning.
He formed a legendary duo with Karl Malone, running the pick-and-roll with near-perfect execution every game. Even against tough defenses, Stockton delivered precision passes and timely shots. His unselfish style made teammates better and fans loyal.
Stockton averaged over 10 assists per game for ten straight seasons, making double-doubles routine for him. Though he never won a championship, his leadership and numbers speak volumes. He remains one of the most efficient and reliable point guards ever.
Shaquille O’Neal: The Big Diesel Doubled Up in Points and Rebounds
Number of Double Doubles: 727
Career Stats: 23.7 PPG, 10.9 RPG, 2.5 APG; 58.2 FG%, 4.5 3FG%, 52.7 FT%
Notable Achievements: 4× NBA champion, 3× Finals MVP, 1× MVP, 1x NBA Rookie of the Year (1992–93), 15x NBA All-Star, 14x All-NBA selections
Shaquille O’Neal ranks 6th among the best NBA double double leaders, finishing his career with 727 regular season double-doubles.
As one of the most dominant centers ever, Shaq consistently controlled games with his size, skill, and presence in the paint. He averaged a double-double in 13 of his 19 seasons, proving his consistent impact.
Shaq combined sheer power and rare athleticism to overwhelm defenders. At over 300 pounds, he moved like a guard and jumped like a forward. Opponents struggled to contain him as he dunked through contact and altered shots with force. His rebounding and scoring created constant mismatches.
O’Neal led the NBA in field goal percentage ten times, showing his efficiency around the rim. He punished defenses night after night. As a four-time NBA champion and Finals MVP, Shaq delivered in the biggest moments. His double-doubles were not just routine – they were game-changing.
He was a key figure during the Lakers’ early-2000s dynasty, making him one of the greatest Lakers players of all time. Shaq’s 727 double-doubles reflect his dominance, size, and relentlessness. He left a lasting legacy as a force no one could match.
Kevin Garnett: The Big Ticket Made Your Money’s Worth Every Game
Number of Double Doubles: 742
Career Stats: 17.8 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 3.7 APG; 49.7 FG%, 27.5 3FG%, 78.9 FT%
Notable Achievements: 1x NBA Champion (BOS, 2008), 1x NBA MVP (2003-04), 1x NBA Defensive Player of the Year (2007-08), 15x NBA All-Star, 22 All-NBA selections
Kevin Garnett ranks 5th among the best NBA double double leaders, finishing his career with 742 regular season double-doubles.
Known for his passion and versatility, Garnett delivered elite performances on both ends of the court for two decades. He recorded double-doubles in 14 straight seasons, proving his consistency and excellence.
Garnett blended finesse and athleticism in a unique way. He ran the floor like a guard and defended every position with intensity. His turnaround jumper, quick footwork, and shot-blocking made him a nightmare for opposing big men. He impacted games in every area.
As the face of the Minnesota Timberwolves, Garnett carried the franchise through its most successful years. He remains one of the greatest Timberwolves players ever.
His effort never wavered. Garnett dove for loose balls, fought for rebounds, and made smart plays under pressure. He led the league in total rebounds four times and averaged a double-double in 10 seasons.
Even after leaving Minnesota, Garnett won a championship with Boston, proving his leadership and value.
His 742 double-doubles reflect not only stats, but effort, emotion, and versatility. Garnett redefined the modern power forward and left a lasting legacy.
Dwight Howard: Superman Was a Force to be Reckoned With
Number of Double Doubles: 748
Career Stats: 15.7 PPG, 11.8 RPG, 1.3 APG; 58.7 FG%, 21.4 3FG%, 56.7 FT%
Notable Achievements: 3× DPOY, 4× All-Defensive 1st Team, 1× All- NBA Defensive 2nd Team
Dwight Howard ranks 4th among the best NBA double double leaders, recording 748 regular season double-doubles during his dominant career.
As a center, Howard made a massive impact with his rebounding, shot-blocking, and interior scoring. He averaged a double-double in 14 straight seasons. Howard combined explosive athleticism and overwhelming power, allowing him to dominate the paint on both ends of the floor. He soared for rebounds and dunks.
Defensively, he anchored teams with his rim protection and quick reactions. Howard won three Defensive Player of the Year awards, solidifying his place among the best NBA defenders ever. He led the league in rebounding five times and in blocks twice. His presence made opponents hesitate in the paint.
Howard carried the Orlando Magic to the 2009 NBA Finals, showcasing his value on the biggest stage. He later won a title with the Lakers in 2020. His energy, vertical leap, and timing helped him dominate without needing plays to run for him. He cleaned the glass and shut down lanes.
With 748 double-doubles, Howard proved his durability, consistency, and elite two-way impact. His legacy as one of the most athletic and powerful centers remains intact, especially among the best NBA defenders in league history.
Hakeem Olajuwon: The Dream Carried His Team with His Double Doubles
Number of Double Doubles: 775
Career Stats: 21.8 PPG, 11.1 RPG, 2.5 APG; 51.2 FG%, 20.2 3FG%, 71.2 FT%
Notable Achievements: 2× NBA champion, 1× Finals MVP, 1× MVP, 2× Defensive Player of the Year, 12× All-Star, 22× All-NBA selections
Hakeem Olajuwon ranks 3rd among the best NBA double double leaders, recording 775 regular season double-doubles during his Hall of Fame career.
Olajuwon combined elite footwork, defensive instincts, and offensive skill to dominate on both ends of the court. He averaged a double-double in 13 seasons.
Known for his signature “Dream Shake,” he scored efficiently while keeping defenders off balance with precise moves and counters. Olajuwon’s basketball IQ and timing set him apart. He read plays before they developed and made smart decisions under pressure.
Defensively, he was a force. He ranks first among all-time NBA blocks leaders with 3,830, showing his unmatched rim protection. Moreover, Olajuwon had impeccable timing on shot contests and rebounding positioning. That awareness helped him control the game without relying solely on athleticism.
Olajuwon led the Houston Rockets to back-to-back championships in the 1990s, earning Finals MVP both times. He outplayed elite centers in crucial matchups.
He ranks top 10 in career rebounds and steals, an extremely rare combination for a center. His 775 double-doubles reflect excellence, longevity, and total control of the game.
Olajuwon’s legacy as a leader, winner, and all-around star remains untouchable among the best NBA centers ever.
Karl Malone: The Mailman Delivered Daily Double Doubles
Number of Double Doubles: 814
Career Stats: 25.0 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 3.6 APG; 51.6 FG%, 27.4 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 2x MVP, 14x NBA All-Star, 19x All-NBA selections
Karl Malone ranks 2nd among the best NBA double double leaders, recording 814 regular season double-doubles during his remarkable 19-year career.
“The Mailman” delivered consistent production in scoring and rebounding nearly every night. He averaged a double-double in 12 seasons. As one of the best NBA power forwards, Malone blended strength, footwork, and mid-range shooting to dominate opposing defenses.
He powered through contact, ran the floor hard, and finished plays with authority. His physical conditioning gave him a major advantage. Even in the latter half of his career, he could run and provide a strong presence in the interior.
Malone had great chemistry with point guard John Stockton. Their pick-and-roll became one of the most effective plays in NBA history. Defenders struggled to stop him in transition or in the half-court. He scored over 25 points per game for 10 seasons.
Malone also ranked among the top rebounders in the league throughout his career, often controlling the glass on both ends. Though he never won a championship, his consistency and durability made him a franchise cornerstone.
His 814 double-doubles highlight not just talent, but sustained excellence over nearly two decades. Karl Malone’s mix of power, skill, and relentlessness secures his place among the best NBA power forwards of all time.
Tim Duncan: The Big Fundamental Leads the NBA Double Double Leaders List
Number of Double Doubles: 841
Career Stats: 19.0 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 3.0 APG; 50.6 FG%, 50.6 FG3%
Notable Achievements: 5x NBA Champion, 3x Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 1x Rookie of the Year, 15x NBA All-Star, 31x All-NBA selections
Tim Duncan ranks 1st among the best NBA double double leaders, recording an incredible 841 regular season double-doubles in his career.
Duncan dominated with efficiency, patience, and smart decision-making. He averaged a double-double in 13 seasons in points and rebounds.
Duncan played 19 seasons with the San Antonio Spurs, helping lead them to five NBA championships. He delivered steady production every night. Moreover, he used excellent footwork, touch, and positioning to score inside and control the boards. His style was simple but incredibly effective.
Defensively, he altered shots, rotated perfectly, and anchored one of the league’s best systems. He was a complete two-way force. Duncan rarely forced plays. Instead, he made the right move, passed out of double teams, and punished mistakes with consistency.
He earned two MVP awards and three Finals MVPs, proving his value during both the regular season and playoffs. Coaches trusted him in every situation. Teammates fed off his calm leadership and winning mentality.
With 841 double-doubles, Duncan set the gold standard for long-term excellence. His consistency, skill, and impact make him not just the leader in double-doubles, but one of the greatest players ever.
If you enjoyed the best NBA double-double leaders, check out the players who posted the mythical quadruple double stat line, or the players who held the most NBA Scoring titles.