Nick Saban, the former head coach of Alabama, received the “Icon Award” at the 2024 ESPY Awards in just his first offseason following his retirement announcement.

ICON AWARD

GREETINGS, COACH NICK SABAN #ROLLTIDE UY4FWXTQ9J on Twitter

— July 12, 2024 — ALABAMA FOOTBALL (@ALABAMAFTBL)

In his 17 seasons as Alabama’s head coach, Nick Saban won six national titles and guided four players to the Heisman Trophy—an achievement that had never been attained at Alabama prior to Saban’s arrival.

Running back Mark Ingram and quarterback Bryce Young, two of Saban’s Heisman Trophy winners, gave Saban the coveted award.

MARK ESPYS

Greetings to @Markingramii on the 2024 ESPY ICON Award, which was given to his former head coach at Alabama Football League (ALABAMAFTBL).

— July 12, 2024, BIG NOON KICKOFF (@BNKONFOX)

After accepting the trophy, Saban gave an energizing speech in which he discussed character and the significance of athletes using their platforms for good. He added that there were enough players from Alabama present for a practice.

NEVER AGAIN WILL THERE BE A NICK SABAN. WHAT A STRONG MESSENGER.PH8H3IEAYT on Twitter:

— July 12, 2024 — CLINT LAMB (@CLINTRLAMB)

“When I was a little child in West Virginia, my dad told me that having compassion for other people is the most important aspect of your character,” the man said. “Emotions stay with people more than words; people will remember your words.”

“I want to address everyone in this room, as there are numerous exceptional athletes here,” Saban remarked. “We are bound by both obligation and responsibility. Because there is nothing greater than athletics to bring people together.

A few behind-the-scenes photos of her and her parents at the ceremony were released by his daughter Kristen Saban.

It’s a fitting honor to the greatest college football star ever that Nick Saban receives the star Award, and it’s a fantastic look back at his remarkable career.