Florida Gators Face Off Against Alabama Crimson Tide

Coach Todd Golden discusses Charles Bediako and the upcoming matchup

Jan. 30, 2026 at 1:23pm

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The Florida Gators basketball team is set to host the No. 23 ranked Alabama Crimson Tide on Sunday at 1 p.m. in Gainesville. Florida head coach Todd Golden spoke about the upcoming game, including the presence of NBA G League player Charles Bediako on the Alabama roster.

Why it matters

This SEC matchup between two ranked teams will be an important early-season test for both programs as they look to establish themselves in the conference hierarchy. Bediako's NBA G League experience adds an intriguing subplot to the game.

The details

Florida will welcome the Alabama Crimson Tide, led by NBA G League player Charles Bediako, to Gainesville on Sunday afternoon. Gators head coach Todd Golden discussed the upcoming matchup, highlighting Bediako's talent and the challenges he will present to Florida's defense.

  • The game is scheduled for Sunday, January 30th, 2026 at 1 p.m.

The players

Todd Golden

The head coach of the Florida Gators basketball team.

Charles Bediako

An NBA G League player who is currently on the roster for the Alabama Crimson Tide.

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What they’re saying

“We must be prepared to handle Charles Bediako and the rest of the Alabama team. They are a talented squad, and this will be a tough test for us.”

— Todd Golden, Head Coach, Florida Gators

What’s next

The winner of this game will take an important step towards securing a high seed in the SEC tournament and potentially earning an NCAA Tournament bid.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Florida Gators and Alabama Crimson Tide features an intriguing subplot with the presence of NBA G League player Charles Bediako on the Alabama roster, adding an extra layer of intrigue to an already highly anticipated SEC showdown.