Nick Saban walks out on press conference in response to DJ Fluker questions
Alabama head coach Nick Saban ended his press conference prematurely on Wednesday after he became frustrated with questions about a Yahoo! Sports article citing documents and text messages that have led to an improper benefits investigation. Former Crimson Tide lineman DJ Fluker has reportedly been interviewed by compliance officers and is cooperating with the school’s investigation regarding claims that he took money and benefits while at Alabama.
Saban, who was looking to discuss his team’s upcoming game against Texas A&M, was repeatedly asked questions about the article.
“I don’t know anything about any current players that will have any circumstances relative to this,” he replied. “So there’s no sense in asking about that.”
Of course, it was the only topic reporters wanted to discuss. Saban said multiple times that he had nothing more to add and that Alabama athletic director Bill Battle had already addressed the matter on behalf of everyone.
“As I said before, I made a statement — don’t ask me anymore questions about this,” a visibly frustrated Saban said.
When the questions did not stop, Saban sarcastically mumbled, “Appreciate your interest in the game,” and walked out.
The Yahoo! Sports article examines payments that were allegedly made to Fluker, his girlfriend and his mother in the form of cash, airline tickets, hotel stays, furniture and other expenses. Luther Davis, a former Alabama defensive end, is said to have acted as the liaison between at least five SEC players, three NFL agents and three financial advisors.
Back in April, a tweet was sent from Fluker’s Twitter account that talked about how he took money while still in college. His agent later said the San Diego Chargers lineman’s account was hacked, although that seems less likely now that he is reportedly cooperating with an investigation. Between the latest Yahoo! Sports report and Sports Illustrated’s ongoing takedown of Oklahoma State, it seems like major media outlets have grown intent on blowing the doors off the NCAA.
Video via AL.com