Nick Saban’s sudden retirement right after the Rose Bowl loss to Michigan in January was the talk of the town for quite some time. This unexpected decision from the 72-year-old stunned many, but the fans had to accept the reality. When things were just about to settle down, Saban added fuel to the fire with his controversial remarks on his players and how that pushed him to retirement.

The $80 million coach spoke about young athletes’ desire for NIL money and how it is affecting the game. Well, Reggie Miller did not want to hear any of it. The NBA legend hinted at hypocrisy after listening to Saban’s excuses. Miller shared on his Instagram, “Coming from a coach making 30 million a year, multiple mansions, yachts, and a plane at his disposal, I’ve been very adamant about this.“

These words from Miller were triggered by Saban’s comment, which read, “The goal and aspirations are just different and that it’s all about how much money can I make as a college player“. The Alabama Crimson Tide coach also said, “All they want to know is two things- What assurance do I have that I’m going to play…and how much are you going to pay me?” 

Reggie Miller agrees that Nick Saban is one of the best coaches in college football history. However, the above comments made him furious. The Indiana Pacers icon added, “Coaches can’t CONTROL players anymore!! Why can’t players have a slice of the pie?? Change up your coaching style and adapt…now they[athletes] are able to help their families out, you can’t coach them?? CMON MAN.“ 

Anyhow, the veteran head coach is out of the conversation with retirement. There are a few things other than NIL money, that pushed him to take this sudden decision. 

Nick Saban describes his players’ attitude after Rose Bowl loss that pushed him to quit 

The 72-year-old head coach has been with the University of Alabama for 17 long seasons. He has delivered 6 national titles and losses are nothing new for him. However this time, he saw something different in his players.

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Recalling the missed opportunities in the game, Saban shared, “I was really disappointed in the way that the players acted after the game…We had our opportunities to win the game and we didn’t do it, and then showing your a** and being frustrated and throwing helmets and doing that stuff.” All of these actions triggered him. 

The Alabama Crimson Tide lost 27-20 to the Michigan Wolverines. The game went to over time and there were great looks for the Alabama unit to have the game sealed. Sadly, they did not make use of it. Saban blames his players for it, but Reggie Miller believes it is the coach’s job to take control and adapt.

NIL money has been quite problematic for many. It is indeed crucial for an athlete, but some believe it is affecting the game, like Saban. Others, like Miller, think it brings some much needed parity to collegiate athletics. What are your thoughts on this? Who do you side with? Reggie Miller or Nick Saban? Share it in the comments below.

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