Nate Thurmond

Key Career Moment of Nate Thurmond

Nate Thurmond made NBA history on October 18, 1974, when he recorded the league's first-ever official quadruple-double while playing for the Chicago Bulls. He tallied 22 points, 14 rebounds, 13 assists, and 12 blocks against the Atlanta Hawks, cementing his place as one of basketball's most dominant big men.

This rare feat showcased Thurmond's all-around brilliance and defensive mastery, a defining moment in his Hall of Fame career.

Unique Skill of Nate Thurmond

Nate Thurmond was renowned for his suffocating defense and elite shot-blocking ability. Standing at 6'11, he combined strength, timing, and relentless hustle to shut down opposing centers.

Checkout the latest stats of Nate Thurmond. Get info about his position, age, height, weight, draft status, shoots, school and more on Sports Reference ®.

His signature move was the Thurmond Swat-a powerful two-handed rejection that often sent shots into the stands. Unlike many big men of his era, Thurmond also possessed exceptional passing vision, making him a dual threat in the post.

Nate Thurmond's Stats

  • 7 NBA All-Star (19651968, 1970, 1973, 1974)
  • 5 NBA All-Defensive Team selections
  • Career averages of 15.0 points, 15.0 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game

Nate Thurmond's Legacy in the NBA

Nate Thurmond's impact on basketball extended beyond his stats.

Thurmond Nate basketball player

A pioneer of physical, defensive-minded play, he set the standard for future NBA centers like Hakeem Olajuwon and Ben Wallace. His No. 42 jersey was retired by both the Golden State Warriors and Cleveland Cavaliers, a rare honor. A unique fact: Thurmond once held Wilt Chamberlain to just 8 points in a playoff game-one of the few defenders to ever stifle the legendary scorer.

Nathaniel Thurmond (J – J) was an American professional basketball player who spent the majority of his year career in the National Basketball Association (NBA) with the Golden State Warriors franchise.

Today, his name lives on through the NBA's annual Nate Thurmond Award, given to the league's best defensive player.

  • Resembling articles: Theo Maledon was drafted on Philadelphia 76ers (NBA,2rd (34)) (from Atlanta). What position did Theo Maledon play? Point Guard.