Alabama Basketball Player Charles Bediako Ruled Ineligible

Judge denies Bediako's motion for preliminary injunction, ending his collegiate eligibility

Feb. 9, 2026 at 9:07pm

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An Alabama circuit judge on Monday denied Alabama basketball player Charles Bediako's motion for a preliminary injunction, ending the 7-foot center's collegiate eligibility and his season with the Crimson Tide. The judge cited that Bediako 'failed to demonstrate that he is entitled to the injunctive relief that he seeks', according to court documents.

Why it matters

This ruling upholds the NCAA's eligibility rules and prevents former professional players from easily returning to college basketball, which the NCAA president says could 'crowd out the next generation of students'. The case highlights the ongoing tensions between the NCAA, its member schools, and players seeking to extend their college careers.

The details

Bediako was playing under a temporary restraining order that allowed the former NBA G League player to join Alabama in the middle of the season despite questions regarding his collegiate eligibility. The 23-year-old Bediako was averaging 10 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.4 blocks in five games Alabama went 3-2 in. 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.

  • On Monday, the Alabama circuit judge denied Bediako's motion for a preliminary injunction.
  • Bediako had been playing under a temporary restraining order since joining Alabama in the middle of the season.

The players

Charles Bediako

A 7-foot center who played two seasons at Alabama before leaving for the NBA G League, and was seeking to regain his collegiate eligibility.

Daniel Pruet

An Alabama circuit court judge who denied Bediako's motion for a preliminary injunction, ending his collegiate eligibility.

Charlie Baker

The NCAA President who said he was glad the court 'upheld the rules of our members' and that 'common sense won a round today'.

Greg Sankey

The SEC Commissioner who has made it clear he is opposed to Bediako's reinstatement.

Nate Oats

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

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What’s next

The judge's ruling ends Bediako's collegiate eligibility and season with Alabama. The Crimson Tide will continue their season without the 7-foot center.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the NCAA, its member schools, and players seeking to extend their college careers, even after leaving for professional opportunities. The court's decision upholds the NCAA's eligibility rules and prevents former pro players from easily returning to college basketball, which the NCAA president says could 'crowd out the next generation of students'.