UPDATE: In a high-stakes clash brewing for college basketball, Florida Gators head coach Todd Golden has made a bold declaration regarding Alabama’s Charles Bediako. Speaking during an appearance on Gator Talk, Golden asserted that even if Bediako plays when the two teams meet on February 1, 2024, in Gainesville, it won’t affect the outcome. “We’re going to beat ’em anyways,” Golden stated emphatically.
This urgent statement comes amidst escalating controversy surrounding Bediako’s eligibility to play for Alabama after a turbulent journey through the NBA draft. Bediako, a former standout for the Crimson Tide, went undrafted in 2023 but subsequently signed a two-way contract with the San Antonio Spurs. He recently sued the NCAA after they denied Alabama’s appeal for his return to college basketball.
Earlier this week, an Alabama judge, James H. Roberts Jr., granted Bediako a temporary restraining order (TRO), allowing him to rejoin the Crimson Tide immediately. This ruling could have significant implications for the future of college basketball, as it marks the first instance of a player who entered the NBA draft and signed a contract being permitted to return to Division I competition after playing college basketball.
Golden voiced his disagreement with the decision, stating, “I don’t think Bediako should be allowed to do so.” However, he also expressed understanding toward Alabama’s head coach Nate Oats, acknowledging the competitive nature of college sports. “This guy had a great opportunity. He was at Alabama for two years… He was aware of what he was giving up by declaring to go to the draft,” Golden commented.
The judge’s ruling, made just hours after NCAA president Charlie Baker reiterated that players with NBA contracts would not be granted eligibility, underscores the increasing tension between the NCAA and college programs. Judge Roberts’ order explicitly restrains the NCAA from imposing any penalties on Bediako or the Alabama program, further complicating the landscape for college athletics.
Golden also highlighted the challenges posed by judicial interventions, stating, “With all this intervention from judges, there’s only so much the league can do.” He urged for a more stable framework within college basketball to avoid similar situations in the future.
The temporary restraining order is valid for 10 days, with a full hearing regarding Bediako’s eligibility scheduled for Tuesday, just five days before the critical matchup against Florida. As the college basketball community watches closely, the implications of this ruling could reshape the sport in a tumultuous era for NCAA regulations.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
