In a significant legal development for collegiate athletics, the Alabama Supreme Court has delivered a definitive ruling, denying Charles Bediako's petition to continue his basketball career with the Crimson Tide. This decision brings to a close a protracted legal battle that saw the 23-year-old athlete attempting to navigate NCAA eligibility restrictions through the state's judicial system.
Alabama Supreme Court Affirms Ineligibility for Former NBA Prospect Charles Bediako
On Friday, February 27, 2026, the Alabama Supreme Court formally rejected a plea from Charles Bediako, a 23-year-old basketball player, to regain his eligibility and compete for the Crimson Tide. This ruling marks the culmination of a legal saga that commenced two months prior, revolving around Bediako's attempt to circumvent NCAA rules following his professional basketball endeavors.
Bediako had previously spent two seasons with Alabama before declaring for the 2023 NBA Draft. Despite going undrafted, he secured a two-way contract with the San Antonio Spurs, though he never appeared in an NBA game. His subsequent journey included playing for three seasons in the G League.
His return to collegiate play began controversially in January 2026. A Tuscaloosa County Circuit Court judge initially granted Bediako a temporary restraining order, which allowed him to rejoin the Alabama squad. Under this order, the 7-foot center, a native of Brampton, Ontario, participated in five games, starting two, and averaged 10.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.4 blocked shots per contest. The Crimson Tide achieved a 3-2 record during this brief period.
However, this temporary reprieve was short-lived. On February 9, 2026, a different circuit court judge in Alabama rescinded Bediako's eligibility by denying his motion for a preliminary injunction. The initial judge, James H. Roberts Jr., had recused himself from the case due to his and his wife's status as Alabama athletics boosters, citing a potential conflict of interest.
Bediako's legal team swiftly filed an appeal and sought "interim injunctive relief" from the Alabama Supreme Court, hoping to allow him to play while the appellate process unfolded. Nevertheless, the state's highest court upheld the lower court's decision, effectively terminating Bediako's chances of continuing his collegiate basketball career.
This case underscores the persistent tension between athletic aspirations, professional opportunities, and the NCAA's eligibility framework. The Supreme Court's decision reaffirms the judiciary's role in interpreting and enforcing these regulations, ultimately prioritizing established rules over individual challenges. For aspiring athletes considering professional paths, this outcome serves as a stark reminder of the potential long-term implications for their collegiate eligibility.