Alabama's Charles Bediako Awaits Judge's Ruling on NCAA Eligibility Case

Bediako continues to play for the Crimson Tide as judge deliberates on his lawsuit against the NCAA.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 10:55pm

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An Alabama circuit judge did not immediately rule on Charles Bediako's lawsuit against the NCAA over his collegiate eligibility following a hearing on Friday. Bediako, a 7-foot center for the University of Alabama, is currently playing under a temporary restraining order that allowed him to join the team midway through the season despite questions about his eligibility. The 23-year-old Bediako previously spent two seasons at Alabama, made the NCAA Tournament twice, and then played in the NBA G League before suing the NCAA in an effort to regain his eligibility.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between student-athletes, universities, and the NCAA over eligibility rules. Bediako's situation raises questions about the NCAA's policies regarding the five-year window of collegiate eligibility and how they apply to players who leave school to pursue professional opportunities.

The details

Bediako sued the NCAA in an effort to regain his eligibility after leaving Alabama for the NBA draft in 2023, signing a two-way NBA contract, and playing the last three seasons in the G League. His lawyers argued that Bediako remains within his five-year college eligibility window, but the NCAA denied Alabama's initial petition to reinstate him. NCAA President Charlie Baker and SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey have both expressed opposition to Bediako's reinstatement.

  • On Friday, an Alabama circuit judge heard arguments from both Bediako and the NCAA but did not immediately rule on the case.
  • Bediako is currently playing for Alabama under a temporary restraining order that allowed him to join the team midway through the season.

The players

Charles Bediako

A 7-foot center for the University of Alabama who is suing the NCAA in an effort to regain his collegiate eligibility after playing in the NBA G League for the past three seasons.

Nate Oats

The head coach of the University of Alabama men's basketball team, who has stated that Bediako will be allowed to remain on scholarship and work toward a college degree regardless of the outcome of the case.

Charlie Baker

The president of the NCAA, who has expressed opposition to Bediako's reinstatement.

Greg Sankey

The commissioner of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), who has also voiced opposition to Bediako's reinstatement.

Daniel Pruet

The Alabama circuit court judge presiding over Bediako's lawsuit against the NCAA.

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What they’re saying

“Regardless of the outcome of the case, Bediako will be allowed to remain on scholarship and work toward a college degree.”

— Nate Oats, Head Coach, University of Alabama Men's Basketball

What’s next

The judge in the case is expected to issue a ruling on Bediako's lawsuit against the NCAA 'soon', though an exact timeline has not been provided.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges student-athletes face when navigating the NCAA's eligibility rules, particularly when they pursue professional opportunities outside of college. The outcome could have broader implications for how the NCAA approaches similar situations in the future.