Steve Nash: MVP and Master of Human Connection
Thanks to our good friend Alan Stein Jr. for reminding us about the power of
high fives, fist bumps and pats on the back. In 2006, Steve Nash won his first NBA MVP award. He didn’t just lead the league in assists—he also led in something more surprising: high-fives, fist bumps, and pats on the back. Research from UC Berkeley confirmed it. In fact, the Phoenix Suns hired an intern just to count how many times Nash connected physically with teammates. One game? A whopping 239 touches.
Why High-Fives Actually Win Games
It might sound trivial, but there’s science behind it. Physical touch—like a quick high-five—transfers energy, builds trust, and keeps teams connected under pressure. Nash wasn’t just passing the ball; he was fueling his teammates with confidence and enthusiasm every time they hit the court.
The Science of Team Chemistry
The UC Berkeley study found that teams showing more signs of physical connection—celebratory touches, fist bumps, hugs—performed better overall. These small moments of contact weren’t just symbolic. They helped build a culture of resilience, support, and trust that translated directly into wins.
What Coaches and Parents Can Learn from Nash
Sports parents and coaches often focus on strategy and skill, but Nash’s example shows that connection matters just as much. Encouragement, whether through words or a fist bump, reminds athletes they’re supported. It builds confidence, strengthens bonds, and keeps the joy in the game.
Will Sports Ever Lose Human Touch?
During the COVID-19 suspension of sports, many wondered if we’d lose these little rituals—handshake lines, post-game hugs, sideline celebrations. But if Steve Nash’s MVP season proved anything, it’s that human connection is essential to sports. As games returned, so did the high-fives, because athletes know instinctively: connection fuels performance.
The Takeaway: Never Underestimate a High-Five
Steve Nash wasn’t just an MVP because of assists or shooting. He was an MVP because he made everyone around him better. His 239 high-fives a game weren’t about stats; they were about spirit. And whether you’re a player, coach, or parent, that’s a lesson worth carrying into every game.
Ian Goldberg is the CEO of Signature Media and the Editor of the largest and fastest growing sports parenting newsletter. He’s been recognized as an industry expert by the National Alliance for Youth Sports, the US Olympic Committee’s Truesport, and the Aspen Institute's Project Play. Ian is also a suburban NJ sports dad of two teenage daughters and has over 2,000 hours of volunteer time coaching them (which he calls the most fun form of R&D for his newsletter content). Ian and his team provide players, coaches, parents and program directors with the articles and content they need to have a great sports season. Ian has spent most of his career in digital product development and marketing and got his start at the White House where he worked for the economic advisors to two US Presidents.
