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Florida Fans Mock Alabama's Charles Bediako With 'G League Dropout' Chant
The controversial return of the 7-foot center to college basketball after a stint in the G League has sparked outrage among fans.
Feb. 1, 2026 at 3:47pm
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During Alabama's game against Florida, Crimson Tide center Charles Bediako was met with a mocking chant of "G League dropout" from the Gators crowd as he stepped up to the free throw line. Bediako's return to college basketball after signing a professional contract has been a source of controversy, with many arguing that college sports should not be a place for struggling pros to revive their careers.
Why it matters
Bediako's case highlights the ongoing debate around the NCAA's rules and whether they allow for too much flexibility for players to move in and out of the college game. Some feel his return undermines the spirit of amateurism in college sports.
The details
Just two weeks ago, Bediako was playing in a G-League game for the Motor City Cruise. Despite signing a professional contract, he is now back in Tuscaloosa protecting the rim for the Alabama Crimson Tide. While the NCAA has approved this move, college fans across the country, including those at Florida's Swamp, have expressed outrage, chanting "G League dropout" as Bediako stepped up to the free throw line.
- Bediako last played in college in 2023.
- Bediako signed a professional contract and was playing in the G-League just two weeks ago.
- The incident occurred during Alabama's game against Florida on Sunday, February 1, 2026.
The players
Charles Bediako
A 7-foot center who played for Alabama, left to play in the G-League, and has now returned to the Crimson Tide roster despite having signed a professional contract.
Alabama Crimson Tide
The college basketball team that Bediako has rejoined after a stint in the G-League.
Florida Gators
The college basketball team that hosted Alabama and whose fans mocked Bediako with the "G League dropout" chant.
What’s next
The NCAA is likely to face continued scrutiny over its rules regarding player eligibility and the ability of professionals to return to the college game.
The takeaway
Bediako's case highlights the ongoing tension between the NCAA's amateurism model and the reality of modern college sports, where players increasingly view the college game as a stepping stone to professional careers.
