Nick Saban Congratulated First-Time PGA Tour Winner With Such an Awkward Phone Call

It was fitting that Hodges, who is an Alabama alum, would receive a phone call from the head football coach, Nick Saban.

Shortly after Lee Hodges picked up his first PGA Tour win at Sunday’s 3M Open, he received a congratulatory phone call from Alabama football coach Nick Saban.

Hodges played college golf at Alabama, so it seemed fitting that Saban would call him after his win. However, the call ended up sounding like an awkward situation for both Hodges and Saban.

Here’s part of their conversation:

“Hey coach,” Hodges said.

“Hey Lee, how are you doing buddy?" Saban replied.

“How are ya, bud?” Hodges said.

“Great, congratulations,” Saban said.

“Thank you, pal. Appreciate that man,” Hodges said, calling Saban by two more nicknames.

The conversation quickly turned into talking about Alabama football.

“You guys get after it, alright?” Hodges told Saban.

“Yeah, we’re getting ready to go on ... players report Wednesday and start practicing Thursday,” Saban started to say.

“Perfect, well, good luck this season, coach,” Hodges said to end the conversation. “I appreciate you calling.”

Here’s the full interaction, posted by PGA Tour on Monday morning.

It’s all family at Alabama 💯

Coach Saban called Lee Hodges to congratulate him on his first victory @3MOpen. pic.twitter.com/ZsTHLAX58K

— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) July 31, 2023

Hodges shot a 67 on Sunday to win his first tournament by seven strokes.