Why Victor Wembanyama Could Be First NBA Player to Notch Quadruple Double in 30 Years

Only four players in NBA history have done this.

The quadruple double is one of the most difficult stat lines to accomplish in all of sports. They’re so rare that the NBA hasn’t seen one in nearly 30 years. It’s difficult enough for a star player to reach double digits in three of the major stat categories. But four? The feat has only been accomplished on four occasions in the history of the Association. 

But for the first time in a long time, there appears to be a player who might be able to join that exclusive pantheon of players: Spurs center Victor Wembanyama. 

Going off of history, the quadruple double is easiest accomplished by registering double digits in points, assists, rebounds and blocks—so a shot-blocking center is most likely to hit the mark. Not only does this center need to be a blocking machine, but he needs to be a skilled passer. 

Quadruple Doubles in NBA History

1. Nate Thurmond, Bulls, 1974: 22 points, 14 rebounds, 13 assists and 12 blocks.
2. Alvin Robertson, Spurs, 1986: 20 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists and 10 steals.
3. Hakeen Olajuwon, Rockets, 1990: 18 points, 16 rebounds, 10 assists and 11 blocks.
4. David Robinson, Spurs, 1994: 34 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists and 10 blocks. 

The only guard to register a quadruple double is Alvin Robertson, who tallied an absurd 10 steals in his career night almost 38 years ago. But Wembanyama might very well be the most well-rounded rookie center the NBA has ever seen. Standing 7’4” with a wingspan of nearly eight feet, he’s already looking like a generational shot blocker. 

Spurs center Victor Wembanyama shoots the ball while Pacers forward Isaiah Jackson defends during a game at Indianapolis on Nov. 6, 2023 :: Trevor Ruszkowski/USA TODAY Sports

He’s currently averaging 2.6 blocks per game after recording a season-high eight rejections against the Grizzlies on Saturday. Although it’s a long shot for Wembanyama to end the league’s quadruple-double drought as a 19-year-old rookie, his upside suggests he could become one of the most well-rounded players on both ends of the floor in history. 

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