Former Alabama Star Charles Bediako Appeals to State Supreme Court to Return to Crimson Tide

Bediako is seeking interim injunctive relief that would allow him to play immediately while his appeal is pending

Feb. 24, 2026 at 1:50am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Charles Bediako, a former center for the University of Alabama's basketball team, has filed an appeal to the Alabama Supreme Court in his latest attempt to return to the Crimson Tide. Bediako is also seeking interim injunctive relief that would allow him to play immediately while his appeal is pending. This comes after a Tuscaloosa County circuit court judge denied Bediako's motion seeking a preliminary injunction against NCAA eligibility rules in February.

Why it matters

Bediako's case has caused significant consternation among NCAA higher-ups, with SEC commissioner Greg Sankey even signing an affidavit against Bediako's cause. The outcome of this appeal could have broader implications for NCAA eligibility rules and the ability of players to return to college basketball after pursuing professional opportunities.

The details

Bediako played for Alabama in the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons before forgoing the rest of his eligibility and entering the NBA Draft pool. Though he did not get drafted, he signed a two-way contract with the San Antonio Spurs and played in the G League. In late January 2026, Bediako filed suit against the NCAA, requesting "immediate preliminary and permanent injunctive relief." A Tuscaloosa County judge initially granted Bediako a temporary restraining order, allowing him to play in five games with Alabama. However, a different judge later denied Bediako's motion for a preliminary injunction, ruling that "common sense won a round today."

  • In late January 2026, Bediako filed suit against the NCAA.
  • In early February 2026, a Tuscaloosa County judge granted Bediako a temporary restraining order, allowing him to play in five games with Alabama.
  • On February 9, 2026, a different Alabama circuit court judge denied Bediako's motion seeking a preliminary injunction against NCAA eligibility rules.
  • On February 24, 2026, Bediako filed an appeal to the Alabama Supreme Court.

The players

Charles Bediako

A former center for the University of Alabama's basketball team who is seeking to return to the Crimson Tide after forgoing the rest of his eligibility and entering the NBA Draft pool.

Nate Oats

The head coach of the University of Alabama's basketball team.

Charlie Baker

The president of the NCAA.

Greg Sankey

The commissioner of the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

James Roberts

A Tuscaloosa County circuit court judge who initially granted Bediako a temporary restraining order, but later recused himself from the case after it was discovered he is an Alabama donor.

Daniel Pruet

An Alabama circuit court judge who denied Bediako's motion seeking a preliminary injunction against NCAA eligibility rules.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Common sense won a round today. The court saw this for what it is: an attempt by professionals to pivot back to college and crowd out the next generation of students. College sports are for students, not for people who already walked away to go pro and now want to hit the 'undo' button at the expense of a teenager's dream.”

— Charlie Baker, NCAA President

“While we're glad the court upheld the rules our members actually want, one win doesn't fix the national mess of state laws. It's time for Congress to stop watching from the sidelines and help us provide some actual stability.”

— Charlie Baker, NCAA President

What’s next

The Alabama Supreme Court will consider Bediako's appeal, and a decision on whether to grant him interim injunctive relief that would allow him to play immediately is pending.

The takeaway

Bediako's case highlights the ongoing tension between the NCAA's eligibility rules and the efforts of some players to return to college basketball after pursuing professional opportunities. The outcome of this appeal could have broader implications for the NCAA's ability to enforce its rules and maintain the distinction between college and professional sports.