NCAA Clarifies Handling of Alabama, Charles Bediako for March Madness

Committee to apply standard player availability process for Crimson Tide star

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The NCAA has clarified how it will handle the case of Alabama basketball player Charles Bediako during the organization's mock seeding exercise for the upcoming March Madness tournament. An NCAA committee chair stated that the committee will apply its normal player availability process when considering Alabama's tournament resume and seeding.

Why it matters

This announcement provides clarity on how the NCAA will evaluate teams with players facing potential disciplinary issues or suspensions, which is an important consideration given the high stakes and national spotlight of the NCAA Tournament.

The details

During the NCAA's mock seeding exercise, a committee chair stated that the organization will apply its standard player availability process when evaluating Alabama's tournament resume and seeding. This means the committee will take into account the status of star player Charles Bediako, who has faced disciplinary issues, when determining Alabama's tournament positioning.

  • The NCAA held its annual mock seeding exercise on February 20, 2026.

The players

Charles Bediako

A star player for the University of Alabama basketball team who has faced disciplinary issues.

NCAA

The governing body of college athletics in the United States, responsible for overseeing the NCAA Tournament.

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What they’re saying

“We will apply our normal player availability process.”

— NCAA Committee Chair (NCAA Press Release)

What’s next

The NCAA Tournament selection committee will continue its evaluation process, taking into account the status of Alabama's roster, ahead of Selection Sunday.

The takeaway

The NCAA's clarification ensures a consistent and transparent approach to handling player availability issues when determining tournament seeding, which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the March Madness competition.