Auburn Coach Golesh Trolls Alabama's Bediako Amid Eligibility Dispute

Golesh joked about the controversial situation surrounding the Alabama center's return to college basketball.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 6:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Auburn Tigers head coach Alex Golesh commented on the ongoing eligibility dispute surrounding Alabama Crimson Tide center Charles Bediako, who was granted permission by a local judge to return to college basketball after playing in the NBA G League. Golesh poked fun at Bediako's performance in Alabama's recent loss to Tennessee, highlighting the controversy surrounding the situation.

Why it matters

The Bediako case has generated significant controversy, as many believe it is unfair for a former professional player to be allowed to return to college competition. Golesh's comments reflect the broader frustration felt by rival coaches and fans about the perceived loophole that allowed Bediako's return.

The details

Bediako played for Alabama from 2021-23 and declared for the 2023 NBA Draft after two seasons, but never saw minutes in an actual NBA game. He has since signed multiple two-way contracts with different NBA organizations. A local Tuscaloosa County court judge granted Bediako eligibility to return to college basketball, a decision that has drawn widespread criticism. Golesh joked about the situation, saying 'How did it work out for him last weekend?' in reference to Alabama's loss to Tennessee in Bediako's first game back.

  • Bediako was originally granted a restraining order until a scheduled hearing on Tuesday, February 6.
  • Due to dangerous weather conditions, the hearing was postponed and Bediako's temporary restraining order was extended 10 days.
  • Bediako's hearing is now scheduled for Friday, February 10, just one day before Auburn's clash with Alabama on February 11.

The players

Alex Golesh

The head coach of the Auburn Tigers basketball team, known for his outspoken and controversial comments.

Charles Bediako

The Alabama Crimson Tide center who was granted eligibility by a local judge to return to college basketball after playing in the NBA G League.

Wendell Green Jr.

The former Auburn point guard who declared for the 2023 NBA Draft the same year as Bediako.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Would you believe me if I hadn't paid much attention to it? Crazy... it would add a bigger pool of players, wouldn't it? I don't know. I really don't. It would certainly add a bigger pool of kids. I think college football is evolving so fast, and every single time there's a situation like that, my antennas go up.”

— Alex Golesh, Head Coach, Auburn Tigers

“How did it work out for him last weekend?”

— Alex Golesh, Head Coach, Auburn Tigers

What’s next

Bediako's eligibility hearing is scheduled for Friday, February 10, just one day before Auburn's clash with Alabama on February 11. The outcome of the hearing will determine Bediako's status for the upcoming game.

The takeaway

Golesh's comments highlight the broader frustration felt by rival coaches and fans about the perceived loophole that allowed Bediako's return to college basketball after playing professionally. The case has generated significant controversy and raises questions about the evolving landscape of college sports.