President Donald Trump recently lauded the University of Alabama as “one of the nation’s best basketball schools” during his commencement address on May 1, 2025.
🏀 Alabama Basketball: A Rising Power
Under Coach Nate Oats, the Alabama Crimson Tide men’s basketball team has experienced significant success. In the 2024 NCAA Tournament, Alabama achieved its first-ever Final Four appearance, defeating top-seeded North Carolina and sixth-seeded Clemson before falling to eventual champion UConn. The team also reached the Elite Eight in 2025, further solidifying its status as a national contender.
Historically, Alabama has participated in the NCAA Tournament 26 times, with 12 Sweet Sixteen appearances and three Elite Eight berths. The program has produced notable NBA talent, including Collin Sexton, Brandon Miller, and Noah Clowney. Additionally, Alabama has secured SEC titles in 2021 and 2023, and has been recognized for its rich basketball heritage dating back to the 1929–30 season.
🎓 Trump’s Commencement Address
During his speech at the University of Alabama’s Coleman Coliseum, President Trump praised the graduating class as the “first of the golden age of America.” He encouraged the students to embrace their potential to become the “greatest generation,” highlighting the nation’s ongoing revival and his administration’s policy achievements.
The event, which featured retired football coach Nick Saban introducing Trump, sparked both celebration and protest. While many in the audience welcomed the president’s remarks, a counter-rally titled “Tide Against Trump” was organized by over 500 individuals, including Democratic figures like Beto O’Rourke and former U.S. Senator Doug Jones. Critics expressed concerns about Trump’s influence on higher education and his political rhetoric.
