Florida head coach Todd Golden didn’t mince words when asked about the return of Alabama’s Charles Bediako. In a candid moment, Golden addressed the legal maneuvering that allowed Bediako to rejoin the Crimson Tide lineup - and he didn’t shy away from calling it out.
“They were able to finagle it where they got a judge in Alabama that’s actually a donor in Alabama to write a temporary restraining order,” Golden said, clearly frustrated with how the situation unfolded. “We’re gonna beat them anyways. If he plays, we’ll beat them…”
That’s not your average pregame coach-speak. Golden’s comments weren’t just about one player - they were a pointed challenge to the system and a rallying cry for accountability. And while the legal details behind Bediako’s return remain complex, Golden’s message was simple: bring whoever you want, we’re ready.
For context, Bediako had been sidelined due to eligibility concerns, but a temporary restraining order reportedly paved the way for his return to the court. The kicker? According to Golden, the judge who issued the order is also an Alabama donor - a detail that’s sure to raise eyebrows across the college basketball landscape.
Golden’s confidence in his team was unmistakable. He wasn’t just venting - he was doubling down on belief in his squad. Whether Bediako suits up or not, Golden made it clear: Florida’s not backing down.
It’s rare to see a coach speak this directly about off-court legal decisions, especially when it involves another program’s internal affairs. But Golden’s comments reflect a growing frustration among coaches navigating an increasingly complex NCAA landscape, where legal rulings and eligibility challenges are becoming just as impactful as X’s and O’s.
One thing’s for sure - when Florida and Alabama meet on the hardwood, there’ll be no shortage of intensity. And after these comments, you can bet the matchup just got a little more personal.