Obama hosts Alabama's Crimson Tide at White House

WASHINGTON (AP) President Barack Obama is playing host to the national champion University of Alabama Crimson Tide football team at the White House.

Obama, an avid sports fan, has followed a presidential tradition of inviting sports champions to come to Washington to be recognized for their exploits. NASCAR Sprint Cup champion Tony Stewart was honored at the White House on Tuesday.

Obama begins his day Thursday with his regular national security briefing and will meet with senior advisers later in the Oval Office.

In the afternoon, the Crimson Tide will be honored at a South Lawn ceremony for winning their 14th national championship.

The president completes his day by attending a campaign event in the nation's capital.

Updated April 19, 2012