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Returning to the University of Alabama for the second time in eight months, President Donald Trump took center stage Thursday night to address graduating students, paying tribute to the school's athletic dominance and legendary football coach Nick Saban.
The former Alabama head coach, who retired in January 2024, introduced Trump with a joke, calling himself the "warm-up band for The Rolling Stones." His remarks set the stage for an evening of nostalgia, sports talk, and presidential humor.
During his speech, Trump recalled Saban's visit to the White House following Alabama's 2017 National Championship victory, sharing a lighthearted story about a red button on his desk. According to Saban, the button sparked curiosity among his players, who wondered if it controlled missile launches.
Eventually, linebacker Rashaan Evans pressed it, only for a staff member to appear with a Coca-Cola. The anecdote drew laughter from the audience and served as a reminder of the close ties between Alabama football and the Trump istration.
Mutual respect and camaraderie
Trump then shifted focus to the impact of Saban's retirement, acknowledging the moment as a defining event for Alabama students and sports fans alike. While he jokingly called for the legendary coach to return, he also reassured the crowd that Kalen DeBoer was doing a "great job" as the new head coach.
The President's praise for DeBoer helped ease concerns among fans still adjusting to Saban's departure. Beyond football, Trump applauded the rise of Alabama's basketball program under coach Nate Oats, citing its emergence as one of the nation's best. He playfully poked fun at Auburn in the process, earning raucous cheers from the audience.
His remarks reinforced Alabama's reputation as an athletic powerhouse and energized graduates on their final weekend at the university. As the night concluded, Trump left a lasting impression on students and sports fans alike.
His speech was equal parts celebration, reflection, and encouragement for the next generation of Alabama alumni. Judging by the enthusiastic reception, it seems likely he will return to Tuscaloosa once again, perhaps even making an appearance at Bryant-Denny Stadium in the near future.