The legal battle between Charles Bediako and the NCAA took another step forward Friday in Tuscaloosa, as the hearing for Bediako’s preliminary injunction wrapped without a definitive ruling. Judge Daniel Pruet, who presided over the case, has asked both sides to submit proposed orders by 4 p.m. CT, signaling that a decision is on the horizon - but not guaranteed to arrive before the weekend.
That timing matters. Bediako, who’s been suiting up for Alabama under a temporary restraining order (TRO) that remains valid through February 10, could still be eligible to play in Saturday’s high-stakes showdown against Auburn if the ruling doesn’t come down before tipoff. And with the court operating on a Monday-through-Friday schedule, it’s entirely possible that Judge Pruet holds off until next week to issue a final decision.
So, for now, Bediako remains in limbo - but technically eligible.
Inside the courtroom, Bediako’s legal team continued to hammer home their central argument: that the NCAA’s eligibility standards have become inconsistent, especially in an era where former professionals are increasingly finding their way into the college game. That line of reasoning appeared to strike a chord with Judge Pruet, though he didn’t tip his hand on which way he might ultimately rule.
The case has drawn national attention, not only because of Bediako’s presence on the court but also due to the broader implications for eligibility enforcement in college athletics. Alabama’s decision to play Bediako under the TRO has sparked backlash from opposing fans and coaches alike - and on Thursday, SEC commissioner Greg Sankey made headlines by publicly opposing Alabama’s position, a rare move that added fuel to an already heated situation.
Since returning to the Crimson Tide lineup, Bediako has played in four games, with Alabama going 2-2 during that stretch. The Tide picked up wins over Missouri and Texas A&M but fell to Tennessee and Florida. His presence has undoubtedly added size and experience to Alabama’s frontcourt, but the controversy surrounding his eligibility has, at times, overshadowed the on-court impact.
Saturday’s Iron Bowl of Basketball at Neville Arena is shaping up to be more than just a rivalry game. If Bediako is on the floor, he’ll likely face a hostile reception from Auburn’s student section, which is never shy about making its voice heard - especially in a rivalry as charged as this one. Florida fans already made their feelings known in Alabama’s last outing, but the Auburn crowd could take it up another notch.
Interestingly, Auburn head coach Steven Pearl has shown some empathy toward Bediako, acknowledging the difficult position the player finds himself in. But don’t expect that sentiment to soften the edge of what’s sure to be a fiery atmosphere on Saturday.
For now, all eyes are on Judge Pruet. His ruling won’t just determine Bediako’s availability for the rest of the season - it could also set a precedent in the ongoing conversation about the NCAA’s evolving eligibility standards. Until then, the Crimson Tide - and college basketball fans across the country - wait.