Alabama releases statement responding to Charles Bediako ruling
By Sydney Hunte
Published:
Alabama’s athletic department released a statement on Monday evening after Charles Bediako’s injunction allowing him to remain eligible for the Crimson Tide basketball program was denied by a Tuscaloosa County (Ala.) judge.
“We are disappointed in today’s court ruling, denying the injunction for Charles Bediako,” the statement read. “While we understand the concern around competitive and developmental implications of former professional athletes participating in college, it is important to acknowledge reality. The NCAA has granted eligibility to over 100 current men’s basketball players without prior professional experience in the G League or overseas. Granting eligibility to some former professionals, and not to others, is what creates the havoc we are currently in and why consistency from decision-makers is so desperately needed.”
Bediako had played in five games for Alabama after receiving a temporary restraining order allowing him to play. Most recently, he appeared in the Crimson Tide’s 96-92 win against Auburn on Saturday. In 21 minutes of action off the bench, Bediako scored 12 points and was a perfect 5-of-5 from the field. He also added three rebounds.
Alabama’s loss to Auburn was its second straight. The Tide will look to get back in the win column without Bediako on the bench as they face Ole Miss on Wednesday.
Sydney is an Atlanta-based journalist who has covered everything from SEC and ACC football to MLS, the U.S. men's national soccer team and professional tennis. His work has appeared on such platforms as SB Nation, Cox Media Group and FanSided.
