Unaware of Breaking Larry Bird’s Record, Luka Doncic Expresses Joy After “Special” Feat

During the game against the Utah Jazz, the Slovenian sensation Luka Doncic etched an everlasting stamp on NBA history with a captivating show of ability and basketball IQ. Doncic had a triple-double in the first half, scoring 29 points, collecting 10 rebounds, and giving out 10 assists. With this spectacular performance, the Mavericks dominated the Utah Jazz with a score of 147-97.

This historic effort not only represented a personal milestone for Doncic, but it also vaulted him to ninth position on the all-time triple-doubles list, overtaking the famous Larry Bird.

Luka Doncic surpasses Larry Bird

Luka Doncic, a 4x All-Star in 5 seasons in the NBA, has continuously astounded basketball fans with his extraordinary abilities. He lifted his game to higher levels against the Utah Jazz when he recorded his first-ever first-half triple-double. However, after the game in the post-match interview, when he was asked about how he felt about surpassing the legendary Larry Bird, his reaction was priceless.

He said, “I did? That’s pretty amazing. I don’t know what to say, honestly. We all know who Larry Bird is, so it’s pretty special.” This marked the Slovenian Sensation’s 60th triple-double of his career. The 60th triple-double of Doncic’s career was more than simply a number; it was a remarkable feat that will go down in NBA history. As the game against the Jazz progressed, Doncic approached the milestone in the last 90 seconds of the second quarter. He capitalized on the opportunity with 9 rebounds and 9 assists, collecting a critical rebound after Keonte George missed a free shot.

With just 59 seconds left on the clock, Doncic made a historical play with a pinpoint pass inside to Dereck Lively II. Lively went to hit a marvelous slam dunk to secure Doncic’s 10th assist and completed the NBA’s first 25-point, first-half triple-double.

Read More: Luka Doncic Faces Ridiculous Call Despite Dismissing Kris Dunn’s Instigation in Heated Moment

Which other players have been able to record triple-doubles by half-time?

A triple-double remains a difficult achievement in the NBA’s long history. However, as the times have changed, players like LeBron James, Russell Westbrook, etc have made it more common. But achieving it before half-time is something only a few players have been able to achieve.

Players like Domantas Sabonis who put up 22 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. Nikola Jokic managed to do it twice, once against the Bucks and once against the Timberwolves. He and even Russell Westbrook achieved this feat twice, against both the City of Angels. Jason Kidd also earned his place in this elite list by putting up 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists by halftime. And lastly, the first player to ever achieve the first-half triple-doubles, Kevin Johnson. This not only showcases how the times have changed in basketball but also how competitive basketball has become.

Watch this Story: With Luka Doncic and Wife Jessica Olsson in Stands, Dirk Nowitzki Takes on Ex-teammate in an Entirely Different Set-Up