During his visit to Tuscaloosa on Thursday, former President Donald Trump addressed the University of Alabama’s Class of 2025 at their commencement ceremony. Among the various points he touched on, Trump took time to commend the school’s renowned football tradition and the broader success of its athletic programs.

Before Trump spoke, legendary coach Nick Saban—who won seven national championships during his career—introduced him and reflected briefly on their past interactions. Trump, in turn, honored Saban’s monumental contributions to college football and acknowledged new head coach Kalen DeBoer with words of encouragement.

“Being a student here, you’ll always remember the moment Coach Saban stepped away,” Trump remarked. “He was incredible—an outstanding leader. But you’ve got a strong coach guiding the team now as well.”

Trump recalled his last trip to Tuscaloosa, when Alabama secured a 41-34 win over Georgia in September. He described it as an unforgettable experience and fired up the crowd with a “Roll Tide,” emphasizing that Alabama’s sports program is unmatched nationwide.

“You can feel the pride of this university everywhere, but it’s especially evident in your athletic excellence,” he told the graduates. “There’s simply nothing else like it. This university stands in a league of its own.”

He went on to call Alabama “Titletown USA,” noting Saban’s six national championships with the Crimson Tide, including three BCS titles in just four seasons and three College Football Playoff wins. In fact, Alabama reached the playoff eight times over a decade under Saban’s leadership.

“There’s a unique magic here,” Trump said. “From the athletes to the coaches to the sea of fans at Bryant-Denny singing ‘Dixieland Delight,’ Alabama has left a permanent mark on college football. Legends like Bear Bryant, Joe Namath, four Heisman winners, and of course, Nick Saban, have all become part of the program’s rich history. This is where greatness is born.”