Eternal Glory in Tuscaloosa: University of Alabama to Immortalize Nick Saban Again with Second Statue in “Walk of Champions,” Cementing the Unrivaled Legacy of the Legendary Coach Who Redefined College Football’s Modern Era
In a heartfelt nod to one of the most transformative figures in college football history, the University of Alabama has announced plans to unveil a second statue of Nick Saban along the revered “Walk of Champions” outside Bryant-Denny Stadium. The tribute, which is set to honor Saban’s final years at the helm and his immense impact on Alabama’s football culture and national prominence, underscores the university’s deep appreciation for the iconic coach’s contributions to the Crimson Tide dynasty.
The new statue will be a companion to the existing one that was erected in 2011, shortly after Saban led Alabama to its 13th national championship in 2009. That statue has become a popular pilgrimage spot for fans, representing the rebirth of dominance in Alabama football under Saban’s leadership. But with his retirement in 2024 after 17 seasons, seven national titles (six at Alabama and one at LSU), and a staggering 206–29 record with the Crimson Tide, university officials believe it’s only fitting to expand the tribute to encapsulate his entire legacy.
“This isn’t just about wins and trophies,” said University President Dr. Stuart Bell during a press conference held Thursday morning. “This is about a man who changed the standard, the culture, and the trajectory of our program forever. His leadership transcended the football field and inspired excellence in every corner of this university.”
The second statue is being sculpted by world-renowned artist Blair Buswell, who also crafted the first Saban monument. According to preliminary designs, the new sculpture will feature Saban in a more reflective, leadership-oriented pose — one hand gripping a headset and the other extended outward, as if giving a motivating pregame speech. This symbolic stance is meant to capture his mentorship, discipline, and the unmatched football intellect that guided Alabama to become a perennial powerhouse throughout his tenure.
Alabama Athletic Director Greg Byrne emphasized the statue’s deeper meaning: “Nick Saban wasn’t just a coach. He was a cultural architect. From ‘The Process’ to his emphasis on mental toughness and accountability, he instilled a blueprint that not only built champions, but built men prepared for life.”
The “Walk of Champions” itself is a revered pathway that leads players from the buses into Bryant-Denny Stadium before each home game. Flanked by statues of Alabama’s national championship-winning coaches, including Paul “Bear” Bryant, Gene Stallings, and now two of Saban, the walkway tells a story of enduring excellence. The addition of a second Saban statue will make him the only Alabama coach to be honored twice in this manner — a rare recognition that speaks volumes about the breadth and depth of his influence.
The announcement comes at a time when Alabama is entering a new chapter under head coach Kalen DeBoer, who took over the reins following Saban’s retirement. DeBoer, present at the ceremony, acknowledged the monumental shoes he’s filling and expressed gratitude for the foundation Saban laid: “Coach Saban has left a legacy that sets the gold standard. It’s an honor to build on what he started, and I’m thrilled that future generations will walk past these statues and understand what excellence truly looks like.”
Fans have responded with an outpouring of support, with many expressing that two statues still don’t seem enough to commemorate Saban’s legacy. Crimson Tide fan clubs across the country are planning to travel to Tuscaloosa for the unveiling ceremony, which is tentatively scheduled for the fall of 2025 ahead of a key SEC home matchup.
For many, Saban’s influence transcends football. He championed academic success, graduating players at record rates, and led numerous community and philanthropic initiatives through the Nick’s Kids Foundation. “Coach Saban believed in building people, not just programs,” said Terry Saban, his wife and longtime partner in community service. “This second statue is a beautiful way to remember the values he poured into this university.”
As Alabama prepares for the future, it continues to honor its past — not with mere nostalgia, but with reverence and gratitude. The second statue of Nick Saban will stand not just as a symbol of victories, but as a lasting tribute to the discipline, vision, and relentless pursuit of excellence that defined an era.
In the words engraved on his original statue, now more relevant than ever: “The price of success is hard work.” With two statues now poised to immortalize him, Nick Saban’s success — and the legacy he built — will echo through Bryant-Denny Stadium for generations to come.
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