UPDATE: Florida Gators head coach Todd Golden has made a bold statement just hours after a crucial court ruling regarding former Alabama standout Charles Bediako, who has been granted a chance to return to college basketball this season. In a fiery appearance on Gator Talk, Golden declared, “If he plays, we’ll beat ’em anyways,” ahead of the highly anticipated matchup on February 1, 2024, in Gainesville.
This development is a game-changer as Bediako, who was a key player for the Crimson Tide, recently sued the NCAA after they denied Alabama’s appeal to allow his return. A temporary restraining order was granted by the Tuscaloosa Circuit Court on Wednesday, allowing him to play immediately. Judge James H. Roberts Jr. emphasized that the NCAA is “restrained from threatening, imposing, attempting to impose, suggesting or implying any penalties or sanctions” against Bediako, Alabama, its coaches, or players.
Golden expressed his disapproval of Bediako’s eligibility, pointing out the competitive nature of college basketball. “This guy had a great opportunity. He was at Alabama for two years… He was aware of what he was giving up by declaring to go to the draft,” Golden stated. He voiced concern over the precedent set by allowing Bediako’s return, calling it a “slippery slope.” The NCAA president Charlie Baker reiterated earlier that players who signed NBA contracts would not be granted eligibility.
The implications of this ruling are profound. Bediako’s case is the first of its kind, following a trend where international players and G League athletes have been cleared to return, but none had previously played in the NCAA after signing an NBA contract.
Golden acknowledged the challenges faced by schools in this evolving landscape, saying, “With all this intervention from judges, there’s only so much the league can do.” He called for more decisive action from the NCAA to prevent similar situations in the future, emphasizing the need for a unified stance among college programs.
The temporary restraining order will last for 10 days, with a full hearing on Bediako’s request for a preliminary injunction scheduled for Tuesday, January 30, 2024—just five days before the Florida-Alabama clash. As fans and analysts eagerly await the outcome, the tension surrounding this case is palpable and could significantly impact the upcoming game and the broader landscape of college basketball.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
