Charles Bediako is back in Tuscaloosa, and he’s not just wearing Crimson again-he’s making an impact. After a stint in the G League that never materialized into NBA minutes, the 7-footer has returned to college basketball with two years of eligibility still in his pocket. And while the noise surrounding his eligibility has reached a fever pitch, here’s the reality: Bediako is playing, he’s producing, and Alabama is better for it.
The controversy flared up again this week when Florida head coach Todd Golden voiced his concerns on The Field of 68 podcast. Golden questioned the fairness of Bediako’s return, suggesting there should be a clearer distinction between American players who’ve spent time in the G League and international players who’ve played professionally overseas before entering the NCAA.
“There has to be a distinction between international and American guys,” Golden said. “It’s a much different system. I don’t think a G-Leaguer and a guy who played youth pro overseas is a fair comparison.”
But here’s the thing-college basketball has long welcomed international players with professional experience, often granting them full eligibility. If a player who’s logged minutes in the EuroLeague can come in as a freshman, why should a player who never touched an NBA court be treated differently?
Bediako signed a G League deal, bounced around developmental rosters, and never saw NBA action. That’s not a loophole-that’s a career detour.
And now, he’s back where he started, anchoring the paint for Alabama.
Since rejoining the Crimson Tide, Bediako has already suited up in two games, including a start against Missouri. His early numbers are promising: 13.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.5 steals, and a block per game. That’s not just a warm body in the rotation-that’s production Alabama can use as they gear up for the stretch run of SEC play.
From a basketball standpoint, Bediako’s return gives Alabama a seasoned rim protector and mobile big who knows Nate Oats’ system. He’s not a freshman learning the ropes-he’s a senior with high-level experience, even if it didn’t come in the NBA. And in a college game where continuity and experience can swing a season, his presence matters.
As for the eligibility debate? Unless the NCAA steps in-and there’s no indication they will-this discussion is academic.
Bediako’s back, he’s cleared, and he’s playing. Whether coaches around the league agree with the ruling or not, the rulebook has spoken.
At this point, it’s time to shift the focus to what’s happening on the court. Alabama has a veteran center bolstering its frontcourt rotation.
Bediako has a second chance to finish what he started in college hoops. And for everyone else?
The season is moving forward-with or without their approval.