BREAKING: Florida coach Todd Golden has made headlines with his bold declaration regarding Charles Bediako, the former Alabama standout who has been granted a chance to return to college basketball. During an appearance on Gator Talk, Golden stated, “If he plays, we’ll beat ’em anyways,” ahead of their matchup on February 1, 2024, in Gainesville.
This development comes on the heels of a temporary restraining order granted by an Alabama judge, allowing Bediako to rejoin the Alabama Crimson Tide after he declared for the 2023 NBA Draft, went undrafted, and subsequently signed a two-way contract with the San Antonio Spurs.
Bediako’s return has stirred significant controversy in NCAA basketball, marking a potential turning point in eligibility rules. The NCAA has historically denied players like Bediako the chance to return after signing an NBA contract, but Judge James H. Roberts Jr. ruled that the NCAA cannot impose penalties against him or the Alabama program.
Golden expressed his doubts about Bediako’s eligibility, noting that he had a “great opportunity” during his two years at Alabama and was aware of the implications of declaring for the draft. “He was there during the NIL era… he stayed in past the date,” Golden remarked. “That’s always been, if you stay in, you sign a contract, you’re done. So it’s a slippery slope.” His comments reflect a growing concern among coaches regarding the evolving landscape of college sports.
The judge’s ruling comes just hours after NCAA president Charlie Baker reiterated that players who have signed NBA contracts would not be granted eligibility to return to college basketball. The situation remains fluid, with the temporary restraining order set to expire in just 10 days, just days before the crucial game against Florida.
As the college basketball world watches closely, a full hearing on Bediako’s request for a preliminary injunction is scheduled for Tuesday, a mere five days before the anticipated showdown in Gainesville. The outcome could have lasting implications for the sport, particularly for players navigating the tricky waters between college and professional basketball.
Golden expressed frustration at the ongoing legal interventions, highlighting the limitations schools and conferences face. “With all this intervention from judges, there’s only so much the league can do,” he said, urging for a more stable approach to eligibility issues in the future. “We just need some people to stand up and start taking a stand.”
The implications of this case extend beyond Bediako and Alabama, potentially reshaping the rules governing college basketball at a tumultuous time. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this situation unfolds, both in the courtroom and on the court.
