Nick Saban on Cecil Hurt: 'Truly just loved the guy'

Before Nick Saban answered questions during his Wednesday press conference, he talked about late Tuscaloosa News sports columnist Cecil Hurt, whom Saban called a good friend. 

Hurt died Tuesday at 62 from complications from pneumonia. 

Saban sent his condolences to Hurt's family, friends and all who enjoyed his columns. 

"I know it was his passion to do a great job in terms of how he covered Alabama athletics," Saban said.

In addition to a good friend, Saban called Hurt a trusted companion. 

"I confided a lot of things in him," Saban said. "He never violated my trust. I thought the guy was one of the brightest, neatest big picture thinkers ever that I have been associated with in the media environment. Truly just loved the guy."

Hurt had worked for The Tuscaloosa News since 1982, first as a sportswriter before becoming sports editor and columnist. He had covered Saban through his entire time in Tuscaloosa. 

"Loved his sense of humor," Saban said. "Loved the way he went about his work. He'll certainly be missed by all of us. Our thoughts and prayers and condolences go out to his family."

CECIL HURT:What I learned from Cecil Hurt, a real wizard

AN INSTITUTION:Tuscaloosa lost an institution, The Tuscaloosa News lost an icon and I lost a friend | Deas