Former President Donald Trump delivered the commencement address at the University of Alabama, praising the university's athletic programs and its winning tradition. Trump, who won the state in the last election, connected with the crowd by highlighting the accomplishments of the football and basketball teams. He described the university as a "special place … where legends are made."

Trump acknowledged the legacy of the late Bear Bryant and current coach Nick Saban, emphasizing the football team's consistent success. He noted that Alabama has won more games in the last decade than any other college football team and celebrated their fifth consecutive win against Auburn. Trump stated, "The Crimson Tide does not rest, does not quit and does not stop winning until it's all time. You're always winning. That's why the University of Alabama football team has won more games in the last decade than any college football team in America."

He also lauded the men's basketball team for reaching its first Final Four in program history and praised the women's track team for winning the SEC. Additionally, he reiterated his stance on transgender athletes, promising they would not participate in women's sports. Trump also took a moment to highlight the graduating football players, too.

Trump also spoke about Kalen DeBoer, the current football coach, recognizing his success, including a victory over Georgia at Bryant-Denny Stadium. Trump attended that game and mentioned the victory during his speech. He highlighted the unique spirit of the school, especially within its athletics programs, saying, "Everywhere you look you can see the fierce spirit of this school, but no where more clearly than in your world-class athletics," Trump said. "There’s nothing like it. Probably there’s no school like it.”

Trump emphasized the winning culture at Alabama, stating that the university's brand is "winning." He commended the men's basketball team's performance, noting their Final Four appearance and continued success in the NCAA Tournament under Coach Nate Oats. Trump spoke at Coleman Coliseum, where the basketball team plays. He noted how Alabama men’s basketball factors into that winning, too. “Last year the Crimson Chaos watched Tide hoops make it to the Final Four for the first time ever, and this year you built on your incredible record and returned to the Elite Eight,” Trump said. “Not only is Alabama a great football school, it’s now one of the nation’s best basketball schools. Congratulations.”