"TUSCALOOSA, Ala. -- An Alabama circuit judge didn't rule immediately following Charles Bediako's lawsuit hearing against the NCAA on Friday, clearing a path for the 7-footer to continue to play. The Crimson Tide travel to rival Auburn on Saturday. County Circuit Court Judge Daniel Pruet said he would have a ruling "soon" but did not provide one by the end of the business day. Bediako, 23, is expected to keep playing under a temporary restraining order that allowed him to join Alabama in the middle of the season despite questions regarding his collegiate eligibility."
"His lawyers argued that Bediako remains within his five-year college eligibility window. The NCAA denied Alabama's initial petition, and NCAA president Charlie Baker and SEC commissioner Greg Sankey have made it clear they are opposed to Bediako's reinstatement. Crimson Tide coach Nate Oats said Friday that, regardless of the outcome of the case, Bediako will be allowed to remain on scholarship and work toward a college degree."
An Alabama circuit judge did not issue an immediate ruling after Charles Bediako's hearing, leaving him able to play under a temporary restraining order. Bediako has averaged 9.5 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in four games since joining Alabama midseason. Attorneys for Bediako and the NCAA argued about his eligibility after he left for the 2023 NBA draft, signed a two-way contract and played three seasons in the G League. Bediako spent two seasons (2021-23) at Alabama, averaging 6.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.7 blocks, and helped the Crimson Tide reach two NCAA Tournaments. His lawyers say he remains within a five-year eligibility window, but the NCAA denied Alabama's petition and top officials oppose reinstatement. Coach Nate Oats said Bediako will remain on scholarship and pursue a college degree.
Read at ESPN.com
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