Nate Oats updates Charles Bediako’s injury status ahead of top 10 tilt vs. Tennessee
By Ethan Stone
Published:
Nate Oats told media Tuesday that starting center Charles Bediako was “day-to-day” with an ankle injury and that he would be a game-time decision against Tennessee Wednesday night at Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville.
Now, Oats is singing a slightly kinder tune. According to the Alabama head coach, Bediako remains a game-time decision but he is “leaning towards a go.” Wednesday night.
Alabama’s Charles Bediako (knee) is a game-time decision for tonight’s game against Tennessee, but is “leaning towards a go”, per Nate Oats. Averages 5.6 PPG and 5.3 RPG.
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) February 15, 2023
That’s huge for Alabama, especially defensively. At 7-feet, Bediako is one of the top shot blockers in the SEC and a massive advantage in the paint. His presence could further constrict a Tennessee offense that has struggled to score well enough to get the job done, despite having perhaps the best defensive unit in the country.
Tennessee is expected to be without Josiah-Jordan James, one of their best defenders. On top of that, starting wing and NBA prospect Julian Phillips is considered a gametime decision with hip flexor tightness.
Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.
