The sports world continued to react to Nick Saban’s retirement. That included former players and coaches, including SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey.

Speaking with reporters, Sankey commented on the news before releasing a statement through the conference:

“The contributions Nick Saban has made throughout his career in college football form a legacy without comparison. His focus on excellence, support for the young men on his teams, career opportunities provided to coaches and championship moments have been achieved through consistency, dedication and care. I have been privileged to work with Nick and with the best to the entire Saban family,” he wrote.

“I think you probably have to go back to like John Wooden to find somebody in college sports who has performed at that level over that period of time. I think that’s a fair comparison,” Sankey said per Ralph D. Russo of the Associated Press.

Saban’s list of accomplishments is excessive: two-time Walter Camp coach of the year, 11-time Southeastern Conference champs, seven national championships. He leaves Tuscaloosa with more first-round picks in the NFL Draft (44) than losses (29).

“Words cannot adequately express our appreciation to Coach Saban for his exemplary leadership and service to The University of Alabama over the past 17 years. His commitment to excellence has set the standard for our program, both on the field and in the classroom. We are grateful for the lasting impact he has made on the lives of our student-athletes and the incredible memories his teams have created for our students, alumni, fans and supporters. Coach Saban and Ms. Terry are tremendous ambassadors for The University of Alabama and our community and we celebrate their many contributions and indelible legacy,” Alabama president Stuart R. Bell said in a statement.

Saban also managed an expansive head coaching tree, with branches from Georga’s Kirby Smart to DeMeco Ryans of the Houston Texans. Saban was able to beat Smart in the final win of his career (297 in college) on Dec. 2, 2023, in the SEC Championship, ending UGA’s 29-game winning streak and receiving another trophy from Sankey.

Nick Alvarez is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or email him at [email protected].