Judge Rules Alabama's Bediako Ineligible for NCAA Play

A Tuscaloosa, Alabama, circuit judge ruled on Monday that Charles Bediako, a 23-year-old center for the University of Alabama men's basketball team, is ineligible to continue playing for the Crimson Tide, effectively ending his brief return to college basketball midway through the season.

County Circuit Court Judge Daniel Pruet denied Bediako's motion for a preliminary injunction against the National Collegiate Athletic Association, stating in court documents that the player had not demonstrated entitlement to the requested relief. The decision lifts a temporary restraining order granted in January that had allowed Bediako to suit up despite the NCAA's rejection of his eligibility petition. Bediako, who stands 7 feet tall, had appeared in five games for Alabama since rejoining the team, contributing an average of 10 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per contest. The Crimson Tide posted a 3-2 record in those outings.

Bediako originally played two seasons at Alabama from 2021 to 2023, where he averaged 6.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.7 blocks per game and helped the program reach the NCAA Tournament both years. After declaring for the 2023 NBA Draft and going undrafted, he signed...