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Alabama Supreme Court Denies Former Player's Request to Rejoin Team
Charles Bediako, a 7-foot center from Canada, had sought to play for the University of Alabama again this season.
Published on Feb. 28, 2026
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The Alabama Supreme Court has denied a request by former professional basketball player Charles Bediako to play for the University of Alabama again this season while he appeals his eligibility case against the NCAA. Bediako, who played for Alabama in 2021-23, was seeking an emergency injunction to allow him to return to the team, but the high court rejected his motion.
Why it matters
This decision upholds a previous ruling by a Tuscaloosa Circuit Court judge that ended Bediako's temporary playing status with the University of Alabama. The case has raised questions about the NCAA's eligibility rules and the ability of former players to return to collegiate competition.
The details
Bediako, a 7-foot center from Canada, spent two seasons (2021-23) at Alabama, averaging 6.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.7 blocks, and helped the Crimson Tide make the NCAA Tournament both years. After going undrafted in the 2023 NBA draft, he played three years in the NBA G League. Bediako filed a lawsuit against the NCAA after it denied Alabama's request to allow him to return to collegiate competition this season, arguing that he remains within his five-year college eligibility window. A judge had initially issued a temporary restraining order allowing Bediako to play, but a subsequent ruling by Judge Daniel Pruet ended that status.
- On February 9, 2026, Judge Daniel Pruet ruled against Bediako, writing that the player 'failed to demonstrate that he is entitled to the injunctive relief that he seeks.'
- On February 24, 2026, Bediako filed an emergency motion with the Alabama Supreme Court seeking an interim injunction to allow him to play for Alabama again this season.
- On February 28, 2026, the Alabama Supreme Court denied Bediako's emergency motion.
The players
Charles Bediako
A 7-foot center from Canada who played for the University of Alabama in 2021-23 and is seeking to return to the team this season while appealing his NCAA eligibility case.
Daniel Pruet
The Tuscaloosa Circuit Court judge who recently ruled against Bediako, ending his temporary playing status with the University of Alabama.
Charlie Baker
The NCAA President who has opposed Bediako's reinstatement.
Greg Sankey
The SEC Commissioner who has also opposed Bediako's reinstatement.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
