Alabama's Charles Bediako Preparing to Play Again as Judge Mulls Eligibility Case

Bediako sued the NCAA in an effort to regain eligibility after leaving Alabama for the NBA draft in 2023.

Feb. 6, 2026 at 7:07pm

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An Alabama circuit judge did not immediately rule on Charles Bediako's lawsuit against the NCAA on Friday, allowing the 7-foot center to continue playing for the Crimson Tide. Bediako, who spent two seasons at Alabama before leaving for the NBA G League, is suing the NCAA in an effort to regain his collegiate eligibility. The judge said a ruling would come 'soon' but did not provide one by the end of the business day.

Why it matters

Bediako's case highlights the ongoing debate around NCAA eligibility rules and the ability of student-athletes to pursue professional opportunities while maintaining their college eligibility. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for similar situations involving players who leave college for the pros before exhausting their NCAA eligibility.

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 argued that he 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 Bediako and the NCAA but did not immediately rule on the case.
  • Alabama is scheduled to play rival Auburn on Saturday.

The players

Charles Bediako

A 7-foot center who spent two seasons at Alabama before leaving for the NBA G League, and is now suing the NCAA in an effort to regain his collegiate eligibility.

Nate Oats

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

Daniel Pruet

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

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 expressed opposition to Bediako's reinstatement.

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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, Alabama Men's Basketball

What’s next

The judge in the case is expected to issue a ruling 'soon' on whether Bediako can regain his NCAA eligibility and continue playing for Alabama.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate around NCAA eligibility rules and the ability of student-athletes to pursue professional opportunities while maintaining their college eligibility. The outcome could set a precedent for similar situations involving players who leave college for the pros before exhausting their NCAA eligibility.