Charles Bediako is expected to leave Alabama and begin his professional career, according to a report.

ESPN’s Jeff Borzello reported that news late Monday night. Bediako had previously entered the 2023 NBA Draft while maintaining his eligibility, but has reportedly decided to keep his name in the draft.

Bediako started nearly every game for the Tide over the past 2 seasons. Last year, he averaged 6.4 points and 6 rebounds per contest. He also blocked 1.6 shots per game.

A 7-foooter, Bediako is an imposing defensive presence in the paint. NBA evaluators are likely most interested in him as a defense-first prospect at this point in his development.

The 2023 NBA Draft will be held on June 22.

What this means for Alabama

He joins Brandon Miller and Noah Clowney as Alabama players who have decided to remain in the 2023 draft. Mark Sears and Jahvon Quinerly have also entered the draft but have maintained their collegiate eligibility. The deadline to withdraw from the draft is May 31.

As for Alabama, the Tide will now search for a potential starting center for the 2023-24 season. Alabama has not yet added a transfer center for this upcoming season. The Tide also don’t have a center in their 2023 high school recruiting class so far.

Nick Pringle, who stands at 6-foot-9, is currently Alabama’s top internal option for the role. He played 8 minutes per game off the bench last season.