Josh Giddey Stuns NBA With Career-High Triple-Double, Ignites Thunder’s Playoff Charge

Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey is rewriting the franchise record book and, in the process, vaulting himself into serious All-Star consideration. The 23-year-old Australian notched his seventh triple-double of the season—19 points, 11 rebounds and 15 assists—in Chicago’s 126-123 comeback win over Atlanta, doing it in just 20 minutes, the fastest triple-double in Bulls history. Giddey’s milestone was also his 25th career triple-double, making him only the sixth player ever to reach that mark before turning 24, joining legends such as Oscar Robertson, Magic Johnson and Nikola Jokic. Through 27 games, he is averaging 20.0 points, 9.3 rebounds and 9.1 assists while guiding Chicago to four straight victories. All-Star buzz growing • The NBA’s revamped All-Star format will feature a World Team of eight international players, and Bulls coach Billy Donovan believes Giddey has earned a roster spot, citing his “impact on winning” despite Chicago’s middling 14-15 record. • With locks like Luka Doncic and Giannis Antetokounmpo already penciled in, the final three World Team slots are expected to come down to Lauri Markkanen, Alperen Şengün and Giddey, whose two-way versatility and highlight-reel playmaking have captured league-wide attention. Why Giddey’s surge matters 1. Fresh start in Chicago: After being traded from Oklahoma City last offseason, Giddey has thrived as the Bulls’ primary initiator, ranking top-10 league-wide in assists per game. 2. Historic pace: His current triple-double clip (one every 3.8 games) rivals Jokic’s MVP seasons and puts him on track to shatter the Bulls’ single-season record. 3. Global appeal: As one of Australia’s brightest NBA exports, Giddey’s rise boosts international interest in Bulls broadcasts and merchandise sales. Key stat line vs. Hawks • 8-for-15 FG • 2-for-4 3PT • Game-winning drive over Trae Young with 39.8 seconds left What’s next The Bulls open a four-game homestand on Sunday against the Miami Heat. If Giddey records two more triple-doubles during the stretch, he will tie Michael Jordan’s franchise season record (9) before New Year’s Day, a feat that would cement his All-Star case and keep “Josh Giddey triple-double” trending across NBA circles.