Rare Pictures Show Nick Saban in an Exclusive Conversation With Michael Phelps Months Before Retirement

Nick Saban’s exhorting nature of claiming titles in college football lifted him into legendary positions. His last championship stint with Alabama in 2020 earned him a record seven numbers of national crowns, surpassing the Alabama legend Bear Bryant. Moreover, the 72-year-old judicious coach has the distinction of having the most number of career wins among the present football coaches. However, the break came on December 10. After claiming accolades from Alabama coach’s post for the last 17 years, Nick Saban decided to call it a day at the moment. Soon, many joined to celebrate the legacy. 

Among the big names, Olympic swimming king, Michael Phelps elevated a heartfelt post on Instagram for Nick Saban. The background of the mutual reverence went back too long. 

Michael Phelps shares unforgettable moments with Nick Saban 

On the very eve of Saban’s retirement, Michael Phelps penned the post keeping a favored time in heart. The post unwinded, “Got to spend a little time w coach …. Was blown away by his mind, creativity and his desire to prepare his kids to be the best they can be. The convos we had were some of the best. Convos I’ll never forget ! Thanks for showing us what greatness is! #goat #saban”. The post eventually felt a deep link the pair shared throughout the time. However, the latest face-up of the GOATs’ favored matters didn’t go as Saban planned. 

Nick Saban’s last NCAA football appearance was the match against Michigan Wolverines, the dark horse Michael Phelps always supported in NCAA football. The 12-2 standout Alabama had to digest a 27-20 overtime loss in the playoff semifinal. Later, Michigan went to grab the championship crown, claiming a chunk of support from the Flying Fish. But the coach and his much loved University of Alabama had bowed to the swimming king on a rare occasion before. 

The flamboyant pep talk 

In a rare appearance, Michael Phelps once made a stroll in the park of the University of Alabama. The occasion was lit with a special invitation from the legendary coach, Nick Saban, keeping everyone awed to the moment. There were not many visuals available to speak for the lessons shared. However, it was assumed that the 23x Olympic gold medalist came to share motivation with the football players of the Alabama camp. Sealing those assumptions, Saban also conceded later in a press conference, “It’s all about choices. Michael Phelps talked last night and said your actions speak louder than words,…his message is of high impact for young people on how to face life, not just sports.”

Read more: Former ‘Honorary’ Captain of Michigan Wolverines Michael Phelps, Once Used His Wit to Guide Them to Semis

Since then, Michael Phelps made many appearances in Nick Saban’s signatory social media narrations. The last night was the moment when the coach received his due from the swimming luminary. 

Watch this story: Ranking the top 5 returning players at quarterback position.