“Teams that touch the most win the most.” -Michael Kraus and Dacher Keltner
During the 2009-10 NBA Season, Phoenix Suns guard Steve Nash averaged 239 high fives to teammates per game. This seemingly meaningless gesture is an important foundation for team success. According to the NBA Touch Study done at University of Cal
Berkeley, high fives among teammates promote cooperation, build trust, soothe worries in times of stress and increase selflessness. Furthermore, the study found that the best teams in the NBA were always getting into tight huddles, high fiving, and chest bumping. The Suns finished the ‘09-’10 season winning 54 games and making it to the Western Conference Finals.
| Researchers say touch triggers the release of oxytocin, a chemical that induces trust. It can also light up the brain’s reward centers and lower the heart rate. |
In general, basketball teams whose players touch each other more win more games. Touch is powerful. Whether it be a high five, chest bump, huddle, or any other example, it brings teams together and builds the foundation for teamwork. Researchers say touch can trigger the release of oxytocin, a chemical that induces trust. If one simple gesture, like a high five, creates trust & cooperation and increases selflessness, what would 239 per game do?
Summary
- Giving high fives or similar types of touches is a simple way to create positive energy for your team and to embody being a supportive teammate.
- A chemical response in the body to physical touch is shown to build trust.
Reflection
- How many touches do you think you average per practice? Per competition?
- How does physically connecting with teammates build trust?
- How have you experienced the benefits of touch in competitive play?
Moving Forward
| Consider: If you witnessed your opponent’s huddling close or using touch often throughout their gameplay, what message does that send you and your team? | Implement: Teams that T-N-T (Talk-and-Touch) with each other are generally more successful. T-N-T has been shown to be the difference between championship teams and others. Make it a goal to T-N-T every teammate every day. |
“I think you can get too focused on the championship and forget how rewarding it is to be part of a team.” -Steve Nash
For more stories like this, check out Challenger Deep: Stories, Athletes Rising Above Adversity: https://tamimatheny.com/product/challenger-deep-athletes-rising-above-adversity/