When most think about sports, “social media” is not necessarily the first thing that comes to mind, but don’t be fooled. Professional sports are not immune to the cult of the celebrity, and just as with Hollywood stars, fans want to have more and more access to their favorite athletes.

Thus, once untouchable professional sports stars are gaining followers beyond traditional media as they expand their digital presence and fan base. By removing their helmets, shoulder pads and baggy shorts, their real and uncensored selves shine thru Twitter, YouTube, and the blogosphere.

Below is my list of the top 5 most entertaining athletes to follow through social media:

STEVE NASH – Phoenix Suns, Point Guard.
This seemingly mild-mannered ball handler becomes hilarious when the red light on the camcorder turns on. Often playing director, he and his teammates have done everything from a spoof of the film Avatar to asking for All-Star votes while lampooning themselves.

SHAQ – Cleveland Cavaliers, Center.
As, one of the most recognizable celebrities in the world already, there’s no need to use his full name. Known for having an approachable and fun-loving personality, his tweets(@THE_REAL_SHAQ) can make what would normally be mundane tasks (like shaving) seem charming. He seems to love engaging his followers in ongoing conversations, and makes every interaction feel relevant.

MARTELLUS BENNETT – Dallas Cowboys, Tight End.
Warning: following this young player on Twitter (@KungFuAstronaut)is not for the faint of heart. His tweets come rapid-fire and are often complete nonsense, but, on some level, they are hilarious and fascinating. It’s like diving into the mind of a crazy person. Formerly known for getting in fights with other athletes on Twitter, Martellus is gaining new fans with his new site that features self-made music videos called Da Cool Society.

TONY HAWK – Professional Skateboarder.
The wise seer and, arguably, originator of big air skateboarding, is very active on Twitter (@tonyhawk). Unlike the other athletes on this list, following Tony Hawk not only gives you info and updates and his life and career, but it also helps you win free stuff. Known for being very interactive with his fans, he often will hide skate decks, video games and other prizes in whatever city he happens to be in, posting clues to their location via Twitter. The first to follow the clue wins the prize!

PARDON THE INTERRUPTION – Television Talk Show.
Although not an athlete, their influence and high quality of interaction are difficult to overlook in sports social media. Considered by many to be the most innovative television program about sports in the last decade, PTI continues to reinvent itself by constantly interacting with their fans online. They are very active on Twitter (@PTIShow), referring to their followers on-air as tweeple. Their daily slate of topics are often dictated by what their fans request on Twitter.

Are there other athletes whose blogs you read, videos you watch or tweets you follow? Let me know in the comments below.