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In a moment that blended sports and politics, former college football coach Nick Saban took the stage at the University of Alabama’s graduation ceremony, where he introduced President Donald Trump. Before Trump delivered his commencement address, Saban entertained the audience with a humorous anecdote from the Alabama Crimson Tide’s visit to the White House following their thrilling victory over the Georgia Bulldogs in the 2018 College Football National Championship.
A championship celebration at the White House
The Crimson Tide’s journey to the White House was a celebration of their remarkable comeback victory, where they overcame a 13-0 halftime deficit to secure the national title. As is tradition, the team was invited to meet the president, and Saban recalled the experience fondly.
He described Trump as a “very gracious host,” noting that he was the first president to invite the team back to the Oval Office.
Standing in front of the graduates and their families, Saban recounted the moment when he brought three team captains into the Oval Office.
He vividly described a large, impressive box on Trump’s desk, complete with a red button on top. This sparked a playful exchange between the players and the president, with one player jokingly asking if the button was used to launch missiles.
Trump, in his characteristic style, encouraged the player to “push it and find out,” leading to a moment of suspense and laughter.
The unexpected surprise
As the story unfolded, Saban revealed that former Alabama linebacker Rashaan Evans eventually mustered the courage to push the red button.
To everyone’s surprise, instead of a military alert, a staff member entered the room carrying a tray with a Coke. This unexpected twist had the audience in stitches, showcasing the lighter side of a visit that could have easily been overshadowed by the weight of political discourse.
Saban concluded his speech by expressing gratitude to Trump for choosing the University of Alabama for his commencement address, emphasizing the importance of the occasion for the graduates. The event marked the beginning of the official commencement ceremonies, which continued over the weekend, celebrating the achievements of the university’s students.
Bridging sports and politics
This lighthearted moment serves as a reminder of how sports can intersect with politics, creating memorable experiences that resonate with fans and students alike. Saban’s ability to share a humorous story in such a formal setting reflects the unique culture of college football, where camaraderie and tradition often take center stage.
As the graduates embark on their next chapters, they carry with them not only their academic achievements but also the memories of a day filled with laughter and inspiration, thanks to a former coach’s engaging storytelling and a president’s willingness to share a moment of levity.
