Former Alabama center Charles Bediako has sued the NCAA in Tuscaloosa Circuit Court, seeking immediate reinstatement for the 2025-26 season after the governing body denied his appeal. Bediako, a 2023 NBA draft pick who played in the G League, argues the NCAA applies its rules inconsistently, pointing to recent eligibility grants for international players like Baylor's James Nnaji.

The complaint contends the NCAA shows bias toward athletes with overseas professional experience over those who pursued domestic opportunities like the NBA G League. Bediako, who played two seasons at Alabama before entering the draft, signed a two-way contract with the San Antonio Spurs. NCAA President Charlie Baker has stated the organization will not grant eligibility to anyone who has signed an NBA contract.

If a judge grants Bediako eligibility, it could set a precedent for other former NBA or two-way contract players challenging collegiate rules. Bediako's legal team argues the NCAA's "Draconian" rules caused harm, especially given he might have stayed in college had he known about current NIL and revenue-sharing opportunities. The case highlights growing tension between amateurism rules and player mobility.