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Judge Takes Bediako Eligibility Case Under Advisement After Tuscaloosa Hearing

The dispute tests the NCAA’s prohibition on former professionals returning to college play, with the association asking the court to end his temporary eligibility.

Overview

  • A preliminary-injunction hearing was held Feb. 6 before Judge Daniel Pruet, who issued no ruling after requiring both sides to submit competing proposed orders by 4 p.m. CT.
  • The NCAA moved to dissolve the temporary restraining order, citing notice defects under Alabama Rule 65 and arguing Bediako is unlikely to succeed on the merits.
  • SEC commissioner Greg Sankey filed an affidavit urging the court to uphold NCAA eligibility rules and to deny the Alabama center continued participation.
  • Bediako’s attorneys sought postponement and discovery, asking the NCAA to admit it has allowed 38 players with prior professional experience to compete in college this season.
  • Filings and courtroom statements noted Bediako has an NIL agreement and receives university revenue share, and that he has played four games for Alabama under the TRO.