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Alabama's Bediako to Play at Auburn as Judge Mulls Eligibility
Bediako's lawsuit against NCAA over eligibility remains unresolved as he suits up for Crimson Tide
Feb. 6, 2026 at 8:23pm
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Charles Bediako, a 7-foot center for the Alabama Crimson Tide, will be allowed to play in the upcoming game against the Auburn Tigers while a judge considers his lawsuit against the NCAA over his eligibility. Bediako, who spent two seasons at Alabama before leaving for the NBA G League, is suing the NCAA in an effort to regain his college eligibility.
Why it matters
The case highlights the ongoing debate over NCAA rules governing player eligibility, particularly for athletes who leave college early to pursue professional opportunities. Bediako's situation raises questions about the flexibility of the NCAA's five-year eligibility window and whether the organization is doing enough to support student-athletes' academic and athletic goals.
The details
Bediako, 23, is averaging 9.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in four games for Alabama this season. He spent two seasons with the Crimson Tide from 2021-23, helping the team make the NCAA tournament twice, before leaving for the NBA G League. Bediako's lawyers argue that he remains within his five-year college eligibility window, but the NCAA has denied Alabama's initial petition to reinstate him. The case is now in the hands of Tuscaloosa County Circuit Judge Daniel Pruet, who did not immediately rule on the matter following a hearing on Friday.
- Bediako will play for Alabama in their upcoming game against Auburn on February 7, 2026.
- Judge Pruet said he would have a ruling on Bediako's eligibility "soon" but did not provide one by the end of the business day on February 7, 2026.
The players
Charles Bediako
A 7-foot center for the Alabama Crimson Tide who is suing the NCAA in an effort to regain his college eligibility after leaving the team for the NBA G League.
Daniel Pruet
The Tuscaloosa County Circuit Judge presiding over Bediako's lawsuit against the NCAA.
Nate Oats
The head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide men's basketball team.
Charlie Baker
The president of the NCAA.
Greg Sankey
The commissioner of the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
What they’re saying
“Yeah, 100%. I mean, Charles is our guy. That's been my point since the beginning, this isn't some random 23-year-old, played professional in Europe of four years, nobody knew, bring him over as a mercenary halfway through the season, like some other places have done that. That's not what we've got going. Charles is our guy. Charles went to school here for four years. I've got a relationship with Charles where the whole thing made sense.”
— Nate Oats, Head Coach, Alabama Crimson Tide
What’s next
The judge in the case, Daniel Pruet, is expected to issue a ruling on Bediako's eligibility in the near future.
The takeaway
Bediako's case highlights the ongoing tension between the NCAA's eligibility rules and the desire of student-athletes to pursue professional opportunities. The outcome of this lawsuit could have broader implications for how the NCAA handles similar situations in the future, and whether the organization is willing to adapt its policies to better support the academic and athletic goals of its student-athletes.
