by Chris Chase, USA TODAY Sports

You know what short people love? When taller people rub their heads. Not only do they get reminded of their diminutive stature but they can feel like a child too!

It goes over as well as rubbing a pregnant woman’s stomach or poking a chubby guy’s belly button and asking him to make the Poppin’ Fresh squeal.

In normal circles, Brooklyn Nets coach Avery Johnson is of average height. That five-foot-10 frame is practically Lilliputian on the basketball court, as he was reminded on Tuesday night when he was on the receiving end of a head rub by Metta World Peace of the Los Angeles Lakers.

The former Mr. Ron Artest hit a big three-pointer in front of the Nets bench late in Tuesday’s game, then casually placed his left hand on Johnson’s head while jogging down the court. It was like he expected a genie to come out.

Johnson didn’t look pleased, nor could he have been thrilled when the Nets blew a lead in an eventual 95-90 loss.

World Peace finished with 17 points.

Thanks to Ball Don’t Lie for the heads up

… [For more on Metta World Peace does something to Avery Johnson that only Metta World Peace could get away with (VIDEO), click here.]