With Alabama basketball up 24-15 and 7:34 remaining in the first half, Coleman Coliseum got a surprise guest on Tuesday. New Crimson Tide football head coach Kalen DeBoer strolled to midcourt, where was introduced by athletics director Greg Byrne.

DeBoer drew a huge cheer from the fans who braved sub-freezing weather to see UA hoops play Mizzou.

“I already feel like I know where I should be,” DeBoer said, walking toward the Crimson Tide’s student section, which had been expanded for Tuesday’s game due to operations changes after the winder weather issues. “Right over here, right?”

When Nick Saban announced his retirement on Wednesday, Byrne got to work finding a replacement for the man who won six national titles in Tuscaloosa. He found the answer in DeBoer, who had just finished leading Washington to a College Football Playoff title game appearance.

DeBoer flew into Alabama on Friday, drawing a crowd at Tuscaloosa National Airport. He was introduced at Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday as UA’s 28th head football coach .

“It is so awesome to be here,” DeBoer said, addressing the crowd. “It’s happened really fast. We’ve got a lot of great news coming out whether it’s recruiting, our staff, can’t wait to engrain myself in this community. What a special place. What a special place. The standard is Alabama. The standard is Alabama. Can’t wait to be here. Let’s keep supporting all the athletic teams. Roll Tide.”

DeBoer headed off the court, to big applause from the Crimson Tide faithful.