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Former college football coach Nick Saban introduced President Donald Trump before graduating from the University of Alabama on Thursday night, but before the president gave his opening speech, Saban shared an interesting story about Crimson Tide's visit to the White House during Trump's first presidency.
Alabama beat the Georgia Bulldogs in overtime after running 13-0 at halftime to win the College Football National Championship in 2018.
President Donald Trump will pos with Alabama Crimson Tide head coach Nick Savan and team members at a ceremony held at the White House in Washington, DC on April 10, 2018 in honor of the College Football Playoffs National Champions. (Geoff Burke-Usa Today Sports)
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Saban recalls his visit as he stands on the stage in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, adding that Trump was a “very elegant host” and the first president to invite his team to an oval office.
“I took three captains in the oval office and the president is really nice to everyone. He has this very large, good looking auspicious box on his desk.
“And one of the players said, 'Is that what you fire missiles?' And (Trump) said, 'Well, push it and find it.' ”
President Donald Trump, right, head coach of Alabama Crimson Tide, Nick Savan, smiles at a ceremony honoring the national college football champion Crimson Tide at the White House in Washington, DC on April 10, 2018. (Geoff Burke-Usa Today Sports)
Trump raves on winning the Alabama “brand” at the start of school: “where legends are made”
As Saban recalled, the players didn't want to test their fate, but Trump insisted.
“So (former Alabama linebacker) Rashaan Evans finally got brave and pressed the red button. He came with a cola on top of the tray.”
Saban concluded his speech by expressing his gratitude to the president “for choosing the University of Alabama and choosing the University of Alabama to make time to talk to his alumni.”
College football coach Nick Saban speaks before President Donald Trump gives his opening speech at the University of Alabama on Thursday. (AP Photo/Manuel Barthsenate)
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Thursday's speech began the official opening ceremony at the school, which began on Friday.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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