🚨BREAKING: Kristen Saban Setas, Daughter of Legendary Coach Nick Saban, Undergoes Cancer Surgery in Courageous Battle Against Brain Tumor
TUSCALOOSA, AL — July 19, 2025
In a deeply emotional and courageous chapter for one of college football’s most iconic families, Kristen Saban Setas, daughter of legendary former Alabama head coach Nick Saban, has successfully undergone surgery to remove a benign but aggressive brain tumor, according to a statement released by the Saban family this morning.
The 34-year-old mother, philanthropist, and longtime advocate for mental health and wellness underwent a complex 7-hour procedure at UAB Hospital in Birmingham, one of the top neurological centers in the Southeast. The surgery, led by Dr. Elena Ramirez — a leading neurosurgeon specializing in brain tumor resection — was declared a success, with the entire tumor removed and Kristen now in stable condition.
A Private Fight, Made Public
According to close family sources, Kristen began experiencing unexplained migraines and vision disturbances in early spring. After undergoing multiple tests and MRIs, doctors discovered a low-grade oligodendroglioma, a rare, slow-growing brain tumor most commonly found in young adults.
Initially kept private, the Saban family decided to go public with the diagnosis last week in hopes of raising awareness and supporting others dealing with neurological disorders.
> “This has been the toughest few months of our lives,” said Nick Saban in an emotional statement released by the university. “As a father, I’ve faced championships, losses, pressure… but nothing prepares you for something like this. Kristen has shown more courage than I’ve ever seen on or off the field.”
Support From the Crimson Tide Family — and Beyond
The moment the news broke, an outpouring of love flooded social media. Alabama football players, past and present, joined voices with fellow SEC coaches, national sports figures, and thousands of fans under the hashtag #StrongForKristen.
Former Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa posted,
> “Coach gave everything to us. Now it’s time we stand by his family. Prayers up for Kristen — she’s tougher than all of us.”
Head coach Kalen DeBoer shared that the entire 2025 Alabama roster watched the surgery press briefing together before their morning workout and signed a large banner for Kristen that read, “Bama Built. Warrior Strong.”
A Fighter with a Voice
Kristen, who has long been involved in children’s wellness causes and mental health advocacy, is expected to make a full recovery. She will begin a short course of preventive radiation and rehab in the coming weeks. Despite the circumstances, she reportedly insisted on being part of her foundation’s next board meeting — via Zoom — just three days post-op.
> “Her first words out of surgery were, ‘Let’s go win this,’” said her husband, Adam Setas. “And that’s Kristen. Focused, fierce, and full of heart.”
Looking Ahead
Though the path forward includes recovery and ongoing monitoring, the prognosis is optimistic. Doctors are confident that with regular follow-up and a strong support system, Kristen will resume her full activities — including her philanthropic leadership roles and her work with youth outreach programs through the Nick’s Kids Foundation.
The University of Alabama has announced that the upcoming home opener at Bryant-Denny Stadium will be dedicated to Kristen, featuring a special halftime tribute and a fundraising campaign for brain tumor research.
In a story that transcends sports, Kristen Saban Setas has become a symbol of courage, resilience, and the strength of family. From the sidelines to the surgical table, she’s showing the world what it means to fight — and win — with grace.
Filed by SEC Health & Human Stories – July 19, 2025
