The lines just blurred further in college hoops a pro player’s comeback now hangs on a courtroom clock.

Tuscaloosa County Circuit Judge James H. Roberts Jr. granted Charles Bediako a temporary restraining order on January 21, blocking the NCAA from enforcing penalties and clearing his immediate return to Alabama’s roster. The Canadian 7-footer, who signed three G League contracts after leaving college basketball, won the right to suit up for the Crimson Tide for 10 days while legal proceedings unfold.

This isn’t just a roster boost mid-season; it spotlights NIL’s pull, potentially reshaping eligibility battles league-wide. Nick Kelly of AL.com broke the stunning development Wednesday morning: “Charles Bediako has been granted a temporary restraining order and is immediately eligible to participate for Alabama basketball.”

The ruling directly contradicts the NCAA’s Tuesday night stance, when officials stated Bediako “signed three NBA contracts after competing in college for two seasons” and stressed they would not grant eligibility to athletes with professional contracts.

“These attempts to sidestep NCAA rules and recruit individuals who have finished their time in college or signed NBA contracts are taking away opportunities from high school students.”

However, Alabama fired back with institutional support: “The University of Alabama supports Charles and his ongoing efforts to be reinstated for competition while he works to complete his degree.”

Fans question the legality of Charles Bediako’s eligibility

Social media erupted immediately after the announcement, with fans split between disbelief and anger over what many see as unprecedented territory.

“College Sports Are Officially Broken,” posted one account, echoing widespread sentiment across platforms.

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The 23-year-old Bediako brings considerable experience from both college and professional ranks. During his Alabama tenure (2021-23), he appeared in 70 games with 67 starts, averaging 6.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks while shooting 68% from the field. The former All-SEC Freshman Team (2022) and All-Defensive Team (2023) selection went undrafted in 2023.

His professional journey included stops with three G League affiliates:

Currently with the Motor City Cruise, Bediako has averaged approximately 5.0 points and 5.0 rebounds in 10 games this season, numbers that pale compared to his college production.

Still, the timing proves crucial for Alabama (12-5, No. 17 AP), which faces top-ranked Tennessee on Saturday. Bediako’s rim protection could address interior depth concerns that have plagued the Crimson Tide.

“HUGE pick up for the Tide,” countered one supporter, illustrating the divided reactions. Bediako’s case isn’t isolated; it represents a growing trend of professional players leveraging legal channels to return to college basketball. James Nnaji of Baylor blazed this trail recently. The 2023 NBA Draft pick (31st overall) played professionally in Europe for four years with FC Barcelona before clearing eligibility in December 2025. He debuted for the Bears in January 2026 with four years of eligibility remaining.

As a result, concerns mount about a potential floodgates scenario. Undrafted professionals like DJ Steward or even former NBA players could theoretically pursue similar legal challenges, fundamentally altering college basketball’s competitive landscape.

“Another player ruining college athletics,” posted one critic, reflecting traditionalist concerns about amateurism’s erosion. In contrast, others question the fundamental fairness of current restrictions. “Can someone explain legally why this is happening?” asked one confused fan, highlighting widespread uncertainty about eligibility precedents.

The broader context includes 15+ lawsuits challenging NCAA eligibility rules since the 2024 NIL rulings, paralleling the landmark House v. NCAA settlement that established revenue-sharing frameworks.

A preliminary injunction hearing scheduled for January 27 will determine whether Bediako’s eligibility extends beyond the current 10-day window. Legal experts suggest this case could establish precedent for similar challenges nationwide.

Meanwhile, Alabama prepares to deploy its returning center against Tennessee’s formidable frontcourt. Bediako’s professional training and 67 college starts provide immediate depth, though critics argue this creates unfair advantages unavailable to traditional recruiting paths.

“This is absolutely embarrassing for Alabama,” posted one detractor, capturing the ethical concerns surrounding mid-season roster additions.

The implications stretch far beyond Tuscaloosa. If courts consistently favor player mobility over NCAA restrictions, college basketball could transform into a more fluid marketplace where professional experience becomes a recruiting advantage rather than a disqualifying factor.

This ruling locks in NIL’s growing edge over professional pathways, but the January 27 hearing could slam the door or pry it wider for more returns. Meanwhile, Bediako eyes Tennessee on January 24, potentially tipping Alabama’s championship aspirations while reshaping college basketball’s competitive future.