The potential return of Charles Bediako to Alabama basketball may already be a lost cause, and here's why it stirs up quite a debate.
On January 20, 2026, former Alabama basketball standout Charles Bediako took the significant step of suing the NCAA, aiming to regain his eligibility to play in college basketball this season. However, the complexity of his situation raises serious questions about whether that goal is realistic, particularly given his previous commitments to professional basketball.
Bediako’s case is not straightforward. He is distinguished from other former G-League players who have successfully transitioned back into NCAA play, mainly because he has signed contracts with the NBA—specifically two-way and Exhibit 10 contracts. The NCAA has recently taken a firm stance against granting eligibility to any player who has signed an NBA contract, a policy articulated clearly by NCAA President Charlie Baker in December 2025. He stated, "The NCAA has not and will not grant eligibility to any prospective or returning student-athletes who have signed an NBA contract (including a two-way contract)." This leaves Bediako in a precarious position.
To illustrate, take the case of James Nnaji, a former international player who was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 2023. Despite having participated in summer league games, he was able to enroll and play at Baylor because he had never signed an NBA contract. Similarly, Thierry Darlan's situation exemplifies how nuances in contract types can significantly influence eligibility. Darlan was the first former G-League player to gain NCAA eligibility after signing a developmental league contract that did not directly link him to the NBA.
In contrast, Trentyn Flowers provides another example of how signing an NBA contract can be detrimental to one's college prospects. Currently on a two-way contract with the Chicago Bulls, Flowers initially signed with the Los Angeles Clippers but found himself barred from competing collegiately despite his lack of actual college gameplay experience. His contractual obligations effectively ended any hopes for a college debut.
If the NCAA were to assess Bediako’s case similarly, it seems unlikely he would receive clearance to play during his final semester. Baker also noted that as schools increasingly recruit athletes with international league experience, the NCAA is cautiously applying its bylaws regarding expenses to avoid disadvantaging those with backgrounds in American basketball leagues compared to their international peers. This approach underscores the longstanding rules allowing schools to enroll and permit individuals without prior collegiate experience to play midyear.
The situation is further complicated by recent legal challenges against the NCAA, which have resulted in rulings that undermine established eligibility rules without thorough trials. Baker has expressed concern about these decisions destabilizing college basketball.
On January 20, Bediako, who remains enrolled at the University of Alabama, filed a request with the Tuscaloosa Circuit Court seeking both immediate and permanent injunctive relief that would allow him to compete this season. His attorney, Darren Heitner, contends that Bediako deserves treatment comparable to other athletes who have gained eligibility, arguing that the NCAA should not apply its regulations inconsistently.
Despite the claim that Bediako could face "irreparable harm" if he is denied permission to play, it appears that the impact of his previous contracts may already impede his chances.
Emilee Smarr, covering Alabama basketball for The Tuscaloosa News, is available for contact through email at esmarr@usatodayco.com.
