Box scoreBasketball
SPGSteals Per Game
SPG is total steals divided by games played — the cleanest counting stat for on-ball defensive playmaking.
Formula
SPG = total steals / games playedExample
A wing with 18 steals across 10 games: 18 / 10 = 1.8 SPG.
Why it matters
Steals are visible defensive plays that swing possession. They underrate strong positional defenders, so use them as one signal among several.
In depth
A steal directly converts the opponent’s possession into yours. Aggressive perimeter defenders post 2+ SPG; positional defenders may sit closer to 0.5–1.0 SPG and still be excellent defenders (steals undercount good defense).
Where you’ll see it
Available in ArcStat Free tier (every box score). Compare plans.
Related terms
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No spreadsheet needed
SPG for every player, automatically.
ArcStat computes it for you — ArcStat Free tier (every box score).