Tuscaloosa, AL — Former Alabama center Charles Bediako has obtained a temporary restraining order that lets him suit up again for the Crimson Tide while he challenges the NCAA for the right to finish the 2025/26 season, according to The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie.
Bediako played at Alabama from 2021-23, went undrafted in 2023, then signed three Exhibit 10 agreements with NBA teams. One of those deals, with San Antonio in fall 2023, was converted into a two-way contract. The 7-footer now wants to return to college more than two years after leaving campus.
A hearing on a preliminary injunction is pending. If the 21-year-old ultimately wins, Vecenie writes, the NBA may need to modify its draft eligibility rules. Under the current system, an undrafted freshman could re-enroll, improve as a sophomore and bolt mid-season to join any NBA club as a free agent.
One solution floated by Vecenie is forcing undrafted players who go back to school to re-enter the next draft. He also speculates NBA teams could treat nearby colleges almost like minor-league affiliates, stashing prospects close to home before signing them.
Around the league
All-Star debate: ESPN and The Athletic staffers largely agreed the initial 10 All-Star starters were justified, though many believed Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards and Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell merited starting nods.
Rookie rankings: ESPN’s Zach Kram placed Hornets wing Kon Knueppel at No. 1 in his latest list, moving Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg to second. Wizards guard Tre Johnson debuted at No. 8 and Nets guard Egor Demin entered at No. 10.
Team-friendly contracts: Spotrac’s Keith Smith named Trail Blazers forward Deni Avdija and Knicks guard Jalen Brunson as the NBA’s most favorable non-max, non-rookie deals in a top-25 ranking.
Midseason grades: ESPN’s Kevin Pelton awarded A marks to Boston, Detroit, Phoenix and San Antonio in his evaluation of all 30 teams.
The outcome of Bediako’s case, and any subsequent NBA response, could reshape how young players navigate the gap between college and the pros.
Source: Hoops Rumors
