Charles Bediako Returns to Alabama, But Tide Falls Short Against Tennessee
When Charles Bediako stepped back onto the hardwood at Coleman Coliseum Saturday night, the crowd let him know just how much he was missed. The ovation was loud, emotional, and well-earned. For the first time since the 2022-23 season, Bediako was back in an Alabama uniform-and the fans responded in kind.
But while his return brought energy to the building, it wasn’t enough to push Alabama past a tough Tennessee squad. The Crimson Tide dropped the game 79-73, a hard-fought battle that showed flashes of what Bediako can bring-but also highlighted the work still to be done.
Bediako’s Return: A Complicated Comeback
This wasn’t your typical midseason addition. Bediako’s return comes under unique and unprecedented circumstances.
After going undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft and spending time on a two-way contract in the G League, Bediako filed a lawsuit against the NCAA earlier this week in an effort to regain his college eligibility. A temporary restraining order allowed him to suit up Saturday night, but his long-term status remains uncertain.
A court hearing is set for Tuesday, where a judge will decide whether to grant a temporary injunction that could keep Bediako on the court for the rest of the season. It’s a legal gray area the NCAA hasn’t really seen before, and all eyes will be on that courtroom as Alabama awaits the next chapter in this developing story.
“It Felt Like Home”
After the game, Bediako spoke about what it meant to be back in Tuscaloosa, playing in front of the fans who cheered him on during his first stint with the Crimson Tide.
“It was an amazing feeling,” he said. “Just thank everybody at Coleman for coming.
Coleman was great. Everybody came to support.
So great to be back, especially playing with an Alabama across my chest.”
Bediako made it clear that his decision to return wasn’t just about basketball-it was about relationships. His bond with head coach Nate Oats played a key role in his comeback.
“The relationship I had with Oats, and just this university as a whole,” Bediako said. “Everybody’s great.
When I first committed here, I came here, it felt like home. The fans were amazing.
The staff, they really trust and believe in me and helped me be the best I can be. So obviously, when that opportunity came, it felt like it was right.
Just ready to come back.”
Impact on the Court
Despite the loss, Bediako’s presence was immediately felt. He finished with 13 points, three rebounds, two blocks and two steals-numbers that only tell part of the story.
His defensive instincts and rim protection gave Alabama a boost it’s sorely missed since his departure. He was active, engaged, and looked like a player who hadn’t missed a beat.
Still, Bediako was his own toughest critic after the game.
“I’ve got to be better,” he said. “Rebound count was unacceptable.
I’ve just got to be better at that. No excuses about that.
We’ve just got to be better as a whole.”
That kind of accountability is exactly what Alabama needs as it looks to shore up its interior defense and make a push in SEC play.
What’s Next?
As for the immediate future, everything hinges on Tuesday’s court hearing. If the judge rules in Bediako’s favor, he’ll be eligible to play again Tuesday night when Alabama hosts Missouri at Coleman Coliseum.
Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. CT on the SEC Network.
Until then, it’s a waiting game. But if Saturday night was any indication, Bediako’s return could be a turning point for a Crimson Tide team looking to find its rhythm down the stretch. The legal battle may still be playing out, but on the floor, Bediako has already reminded Alabama fans what he brings to the table: size, skill, and a whole lot of heart.