Charles Bediako’s tenure with Alabama basketball has officially come to an end after a judge sided with the NCAA and declared him ineligible to continue playing for the Crimson Tide. The ruling, made in late March, reverses a previous temporary restraining order that had allowed Bediako to participate despite prior play in the NBA G-League. This development arrives as Alabama maintains a strong 16-7 overall record and a 6-4 mark in Southeastern Conference action.
Legal Battle Between Bediako and the NCAA
Bediako’s eligibility had been in question since he joined Alabama after playing professionally. On January 20, he filed a lawsuit against the NCAA seeking reinstatement to the team. Initially, he obtained a 10-day temporary restraining order permitting him to suit up. That order was extended another 10 days after attorneys missed a hearing due to weather complications. The original presiding judge, James Roberts, withdrew from the case because of his status as an Alabama donor. Subsequently, Judge Daniel Pruet took over and ultimately ruled in favor of the NCAA’s position on Monday, ending Bediako’s playing eligibility at Alabama.
Bediako’s Contributions to Alabama Basketball
During the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons, Bediako was a key player for Alabama, appearing in 70 games and starting 67. He posted averages of 6.6 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. After going undrafted in the NBA Draft, the center participated with the San Antonio Spurs summer league team in 2023. He then competed professionally in the G-League for the Austin Spurs, Grand Rapids Gold, and Motor City Cruise before attempting to return to college basketball.
In the brief stint that sparked this dispute, Bediako appeared in five games for Alabama this season, averaging 21.6 minutes, 10 points, and 4.6 rebounds per contest. The team recorded a 3-2 record in those appearances, including a recent win over Auburn.
Coaching Staff’s Support and Fan Response
Head coach Nate Oats publicly defended Bediako’s role on the team before the Auburn game, emphasizing the player’s deep connections to the program.
“Charles is our guy, That’s been our point since the beginning. This isn’t some random 23-year-old playing professionally in Europe for four years, bringing over as a mercenary halfway through season, like some other places have done. That’s not what we got going. Charles is our guy. Charles went to school here for four years. I’ve got a relationship with Charles. It’s why the whole thing makes sense. He’s within his five-year window. He’s trying to get his degree,” said Oats.
Despite this endorsement, Bediako faced taunting from Auburn fans during recent games. Although he has the option to appeal the ruling, his participation in college basketball is on hold until further legal decisions are made.
Looking Ahead for Alabama Without Bediako
Alabama now must proceed without its center as the team prepares for an upcoming road game against Ole Miss. The judgment highlights the complex challenges student-athletes face when navigating eligibility rules after professional play. How the appeal process unfolds and the final resolution of Bediako’s case could set precedents affecting future cases involving college athletes with professional experience.
Charles Bediako is ineligible from continuing to play for Alabama, at least for now, per a judge's ruling. https://t.co/Yo1YlvMwLm
— Ross Dellenger (@RossDellenger) February 9, 2026
