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Deion Sanders Turns Sideline Porta Potty Into Health Power Move
© Nick Tre. Smith-Imagn Images

Colorado head coach Deion Sanders has never been one to shy away from the spotlight, and now even his sideline accommodations are sending a message.

During Friday’s game, a portable toilet stood just steps away from the Buffaloes bench, complete with sponsorship from Depend, the adult underwear brand. It wasn’t a gag. It was Coach Prime’s way of confronting a personal battle in the most public of arenas.

Sanders, 58, underwent bladder removal surgery in May after being diagnosed with bladder cancer. Following the procedure and subsequent bladder reconstruction, he needed access to facilities during games.

Instead of hiding it, he chose to lean into the reality of his health journey — and monetize it, too.

Colorado coach embraces transparency

“I wasn’t joking,” Sanders posted on social media alongside a Depend partnership announcement. “I truly DEPEND on Depend. Ain’t no shame in taking care of yourself. Ain’t no shame in health screenings. Ain’t no shame in needing added protection to stay in the game. That’s not weakness — that’s winning.”

The Hall of Famer has since spoken openly about how his diagnosis changed him. In a recent CNN interview, Sanders said he believes his fight was part of a bigger purpose.

“I’m a happy man that I was chosen to carry this burden so I could tell the world about it. I think everyone has somebody that can relate to what I’ve gone through, and I’m still here.”

Doctors have declared Sanders cured of cancer, but his message is that the battle doesn’t end with one person. For Coach Prime, the sideline sponsorship isn’t just a quirk — it’s a reminder that survival is strength, and transparency is part of winning.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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