TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – In a ruling that reverberates through college basketball, an Alabama circuit judge on Monday denied Charles Bediako’s motion for a preliminary injunction, effectively ending the 7-foot center’s season with the Crimson Tide. The decision, handed down by County Circuit Court Judge Daniel Pruet, upholds the NCAA’s stance on eligibility rules and closes a contentious chapter that sparked debate about the evolving landscape of college athletics.
Judge Pruet determined that Bediako “failed to demonstrate that he is entitled to the injunctive relief that he seeks,” according to court documents. The ruling brings to a close a saga that began when Bediako, a former NBA G League player, sought to rejoin Alabama mid-season despite questions surrounding his collegiate eligibility. He had been playing under a temporary restraining order (TRO) granted earlier this year, allowing him to participate while the legal battle unfolded.
The NCAA, through President Charlie Baker, expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision. Baker characterized the ruling as a victory for “common sense,” framing it as a defense against “an attempt by professionals to pivot back to college and crowd out the next generation of students.” He emphasized that college sports should remain a domain for students, not individuals who have already pursued professional careers and are seeking a “do-over” at the expense of other student-athletes.
Alabama, while disappointed with the outcome, acknowledged the ruling and called for consistency in NCAA decision-making. In a statement, the university recognized the concerns surrounding the participation of former professional athletes in college sports but underscored the need to acknowledge the realities of the current athletic environment.
What Happens to Alabama Now?
With Bediako’s eligibility exhausted, Alabama will proceed without a key component of its frontcourt. The 7-footer averaged 10.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks in his five games upon his return. However, his collegiate career is now over, and he will likely return to the NBA G League, where he previously played for the Motor City Cruise. Alabama and Bediako have no further legal recourse, having lost their initial waiver request in January.
The timing of the ruling, two-thirds of the way through the season, further limits options for the Crimson Tide. There will be no appeal at the legal level, bringing a definitive end to this particular challenge.
Will the NCAA Count the Games with Bediako on the Roster?
The expectation is that the NCAA will recognize the games in which Bediako participated. The temporary restraining order granted him eligibility during that period, and the language in that initial ruling prevented the NCAA from imposing penalties related to his participation. The order explicitly stated the NCAA was “restrained from threatening, imposing, attempting to impose, suggesting, or implying any penalties or sanctions” against Bediako, Alabama, its coaches, or other student-athletes.
While the TRO has now been overturned, it’s unlikely the NCAA will pursue retroactive sanctions. However, the case could influence the NCAA Tournament selection committee’s evaluation of Alabama. The committee may engage in internal discussions regarding the team’s use of a player whose eligibility was initially contested.
Why is this Different from Baylor Getting Nnaji Eligible?
The Bediako case differs significantly from the situation involving Baylor’s James Nnaji. Nnaji was cleared to play by the NCAA because he had never previously played college basketball. He had been drafted by an NBA team but never signed a contract, allowing him to maintain eligibility. Bediako, having already played college basketball and entered the NBA Draft process, faced a different set of circumstances.
The NCAA’s rules stipulate that once a player enters the NBA Draft process after a certain deadline, they forfeit their remaining college eligibility. Bediako’s attempt to return to college after pursuing a professional career challenged this established precedent.
The inconsistencies in the NCAA’s rulings on eligibility, particularly regarding international players with professional experience, have fueled criticism and calls for reform. The case highlights the complexities of navigating the evolving relationship between college athletics and professional sports.
Alabama’s Outlook Heading into March
Alabama’s season has been marked by inconsistency, even with Bediako in the lineup. At 16-7, the Crimson Tide boast impressive wins over St. John’s, Illinois, Kentucky, and Auburn, but have also suffered defeats against Texas, Florida, and Arizona. The loss of Bediako exacerbates existing challenges in the frontcourt.
The team is currently dealing with injuries to several key frontcourt players, including Noah Williamson, Keitenn Bristow, and Aiden Sherrell. This lack of depth and size has hindered Alabama’s ability to consistently compete against top-tier opponents.
Despite the setbacks, Alabama possesses a dynamic backcourt duo in Labaron Philon and Aden Holloway. However, their success will depend on the team’s ability to overcome its frontcourt deficiencies and maintain consistency throughout the remainder of the season.
Nate Oats’ Reaction
Alabama coach Nate Oats expressed his disappointment with the ruling, stating he “didn’t think it ever should have gotten to court.” He argued that the NCAA should have granted Bediako eligibility, citing the numerous cases of international players with professional experience who have been cleared to play. Oats also criticized the NCAA for its inconsistent application of eligibility rules, suggesting that European international players are often granted preferential treatment over American athletes.
Oats acknowledged the core issue of the case: Bediako was the only former college player to attempt to return to the NCAA after pursuing a professional career. He believes the NCAA needs to address the inconsistencies in its eligibility rules and implement more stringent bylaws to prevent similar situations from arising in the future.
