Alabama coach Nate Oats pushed back against criticism surrounding Charles Bediako’s brief return to college basketball. He broke his silence and took direct aim at media coverage after a Tuscaloosa County judge ruled the Crimson Tide center ineligible to continue playing.
Judge Daniel Pruet on Monday denied Bediako’s request for preliminary and permanent injunctive relief against the NCAA, effectively ending his season. Bediako, a former NBA G League player, appeared in five games after being temporarily cleared by a restraining order, averaging 10.0 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.4 blocks as Alabama went 3-2.
When asked whether the short stint was worth the legal fight, Oats offered an emphatic defense of both the decision and his former player.
“100 percent,” Oats said. “There was an opportunity to help one of our former players out. He was within his five-year window and he was trying to get his degree.”
Oats also fired back at portrayals suggesting Bediako gained an advantage by turning professional, arguing the reality of the G League is often misunderstood.
“It would be nice if everybody talking and writing about this actually educated themselves on the reality of the situation,” Oats added. He noted Bediako lost weight and lacked the daily resources available in a college program.
Bediako’s attorney, Darren Heitner, said the legal fight is not over, calling the ruling disappointing and unfair to athletes whose NIL value depends on playing.
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Alabama is 16-7 overall and 6-4 in Southeastern Conference play with eight regular season games remaining.
