NCAA Loses Grip as Another Pro Returns to College Basketball

The landscape of college basketball is shifting dramatically as the NCAA grapples with the implications of professional players returning to the collegiate level. Recently, Charles Bediako, a former Alabama Crimson Tide player, was granted a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) that allows him to rejoin the college ranks after spending time in the NBA G League.

NCAA Faces Challenges as Pro Players Return to College

On January 21, 2026, a judge’s decision opened the door for Bediako to return to Alabama. The 23-year-old center initially declared for the 2023 NBA Draft but went undrafted. Following this, he played for over two seasons in the NBA G League without making it to the NBA.

Charles Bediako’s Background

Bediako’s collegiate statistics reveal he averaged 6.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks during his two seasons at Alabama. He participated in 37 G League games across three different teams but scored only four points in five minutes in a recent appearance for the Motor City Cruise.

NCAA’s Response and Current Rules

• The NCAA’s stance is clear: players who sign NBA contracts cannot regain eligibility to compete in college.
• In light of Bediako’s case, the NCAA has called for Congressional intervention to clarify and enforce eligibility rules.
• The organization insists that these rules protect scholarships for high school athletes.

“The University of Alabama supports Charles and his ongoing efforts to be reinstated for competition while he works to complete his degree,” stated the university’s athletic department.

Other Recent Instances of Pro Players Joining College Teams

This situation echoes earlier events. Baylor recently added James Nnaji, a former draft pick, though he has not significantly impacted the team’s performance, averaging just 1.7 points in 12 minutes per game.

With such developments, questions arise about the eligibility of players who have previously played professionally. Could someone like LeBron James, who opted out of college, potentially join a college team later in life? While the NCAA rules currently seem ambiguous, the future of college basketball remains uncertain.

Future Implications for College Basketball

As the legal proceedings regarding Bediako unfold, college basketball fans can expect ongoing discussions about eligibility, competition, and the influence of professional players on college programs. The situation suggests a dramatic shift in recruiting strategies as schools rush to secure the talent of former professionals before significant competitions like March Madness.

As this story develops, it will be critical to monitor how the NCAA adapts its policies to address these complex issues and ensure fair play across college basketball.