Can Charles Bediako play for Alabama again?

Yes, a judge has issued a temporary restraining order allowing Charles Bediako to play for Alabama again.

Why was Charles Bediako banned by the NCAA?

The NCAA deemed Charles Bediako ineligible due to his prior contracts in the NBA G League.

What is the precedent for Bediako's return to college basketball?

Bediako's legal team cited James Nnaji's case, arguing a double standard in how the NCAA treats professional players.

Home / Sports / Bediako's NCAA Ban Overturned by Court Order

Bediako's NCAA Ban Overturned by Court Order

22 Jan

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Summary

Charles Bediako gained a court order to rejoin Alabama basketball.
He is eligible to play Saturday against Tennessee.
Legal team cited double standard for international pros.

Bediako's NCAA Ban Overturned by Court Order

Charles Bediako, a former Alabama basketball center, has been granted a temporary restraining order against the NCAA, enabling his immediate return to the Crimson Tide. A Tuscaloosa County judge ruled on Wednesday that the 7-foot player can play this Saturday against Tennessee.

Bediako, who spent the last three seasons in the NBA G League, had his eligibility challenged by the NCAA due to prior professional contracts. His legal team successfully argued for a temporary reinstatement, citing precedents like James Nnaji's eligibility with Baylor. They contend the NCAA unfairly favors international professional players over domestic G League athletes.

Bediako played for Alabama from 2021 to 2023, becoming known as a defensive anchor and part of the 2023 team that earned a No. 1 NCAA Tournament seed. He declared for the 2023 NBA Draft, going undrafted but signing with the San Antonio Spurs and subsequently playing for multiple G League teams without appearing in an NBA regular-season game.