In a stunning legal development, towering 7-foot center Charles Bediako has been granted permission to rejoin Alabama’s basketball program, setting the stage for a dramatic return to the court this season.
Bediako, who last played for the Crimson Tide in the 2022-23 season, had pursued a professional career after going undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft. Following a stint with the San Antonio Spurs’ two-way contract and various G League teams, he petitioned the courts to allow his return to college basketball, citing evolving NCAA regulations and financial considerations.
Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court Judge James H. Roberts Jr. approved a temporary restraining order on Wednesday, enabling Bediako to practice and compete in Alabama games for the next 10 days. A hearing on his request for a preliminary injunction is slated for Jan. 27, as reported by The Athletic.
Bediako’s case is unprecedented, as most returning college athletes with professional experience have not signed NBA contracts. During his two seasons with Alabama, Bediako averaged 6.6 points and 5.2 rebounds across 70 games, demonstrating both consistency and potential for high-level impact.
Addressing the NCAA’s position, the organization reaffirmed its longstanding eligibility rules, stating it does not endorse athletes who have signed professional contracts returning to collegiate competition.
“The NCAA is aware of media reports about a lawsuit filed against the NCAA by Charles Bediako,” the statement read. “Eligibility rules ensure high school students get a fair chance at scholarships, and we will continue to enforce these standards rigorously.”
Bediako’s court filing argued that his departure for the NBA draft preceded major shifts in college athletics, including the ability to earn compensation while remaining a student-athlete. “Had he known he could have been financially compensated while still in school, he would have remained,” the filing noted.
Alabama, ranked 17th nationally, currently sits fifth in the Southeastern Conference with a 3-2 record and an overall 13-5 mark. The Crimson Tide have 13 remaining games this season, beginning with a home clash against Tennessee this Saturday.
