Nick Saban’s go-to person before making any major plans through 17 seasons at the University of Alabama was Coach Cedric Burns.
Burns was Saban’s right-hand man for everything. He brought in Saban’s water for every press conference, handled in-house recruiting aspects, planned golf events and speaking engagements, and stood behind Saban at each game encouraging the players.
Now in retirement, Saban has a new primary person before making plans.
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He spoke at an event Thursday in Irondale (Ala.) as Chris McCulley of ABC 33/40 captured it. The 72-year-old highlighted Emmy Award-winning meteorologist, James Spann as the one he depends on for the right information before traveling. Saban enjoys speaking at different places, having media appearances, and playing golf, but he wants to have the right weather to do it in.
He credits Spann for always being ‘right on’ with the weather.
Nick Saban on who he gets his weather reports from when traveling and hitting the golf course: @abc3340 @spann
” I call James Spann and say what’s the weather look like in Dallas? I don’t want to get caught in any thunderstorms and he’s always right on.” pic.twitter.com/KXJgAnToaR
— Chris McCulley (@ChrisMcCulleyTV) May 2, 2024
“I have been flying all over the country to speak and do things like this,” Saban said.
“So I call James Spann and say what’s the weather look like in Dallas? We are flying over there today, and I don’t want to get into any thunderstorms. He is always right on so I appreciate that.”
After he accomplished being a legendary head coach, Saban is relaxing in his retirement.
He always enjoyed fall camp with Alabama football, but this year will be different. Hopefully, he finds something to keep his interest until the season comes back for the Crimson Tide.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
