Ex-G League Player Charles Bediako Returns to Alabama Basketball

Former G-League player Charles Bediako, a 7-foot center, is returning to Alabama men's basketball after being granted a temporary restraining order to restore his eligibility. Bediako went undrafted in the 2023 NBA Draft after declaring from Alabama and subsequently played in the G-League for the Austin Spurs, Grand Rapids Gold, and most recently the Motor City Cruise (Detroit Pistons affiliate), where he last recorded 4 points and 3 rebounds on Jan. 17. The NCAA had initially denied his request, but Coach Nate Oats and AD Greg Byrne defended his return, citing inconsistencies in NCAA rules for professional players. Bediako, 23, is still within his five-year window and pursuing his degree.