Greg Sankey Sides With NCAA Against Alabama in the Charles Bediako Case

Greg Sankey has taken a rare and highly public stance against one of his own SEC programs, formally siding with the NCAA in its effort to block Alabama center Charles Bediako from continuing to play under a temporary restraining order. The case is currently in court and there should be a ruling by 10:00 A.M. today. If Alabama prevails he will play Saturday against Auburn and likely will finish the year playing for the Tide. If the judge rules against Bediako he won't play against Auburn on Saturday and his college career is likely over.

A Commissioner Takes an Unusual Stand

SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey has formally aligned himself with the NCAA in its legal battle over Alabama center Charles Bediako's eligibility-a move that places him directly at odds with one of the SEC's flagship programs. In an affidavit filed ahead of Bediako's injunction hearing, Sankey asked the court to deny additional eligibility and to uphold the NCAA's rules, arguing that the integrity of college athletics depends on consistent enforcement.

Sankey's position is striking because SEC commissioners rarely intervene in eligibility disputes involving their own member schools. His filing underscores the national significance of the case and the growing tension between traditional NCAA amateurism principles and the rapidly shifting landscape of college sports.

Why Sankey Opposes Bediako's Return

In his affidavit, Sankey argues that allowing former professional athletes-especially those who signed NBA or G‑League contracts-to return to college competition creates "competitive disadvantage and fundamental unfairness" for athletes who stayed within the collegiate model. He also warns that such rulings could reduce opportunities for high‑school recruits, since roster spots are finite.

Sankey frames the issue as one of consistency: if courts override NCAA rules on a case‑by‑case basis, he says, the result is disruption and uncertainty across college sports.

The Bediako Case: A National Flashpoint

Charles Bediako, who played for Alabama from 2021–23, left school early, signed multiple professional contracts-including a two‑way NBA deal-and competed in the G League. Under long‑standing NCAA rules, that should have ended his college eligibility.

But after suing the NCAA, Bediako secured a temporary restraining order from a Tuscaloosa County judge, allowing him to rejoin the Crimson Tide. He has since appeared in four games, averaging around 9.5 points and 5 rebounds.

The NCAA argues that his professional history makes him ineligible. Bediako's attorneys counter that the NCAA has inconsistently granted waivers to other former pros-both G‑League and international players-making the enforcement arbitrary.

A Complicated Legal Backdrop

The case has already seen unusual twists:

- The original judge, James Roberts Jr., recused himself after scrutiny over his status as an Alabama donor.

- The NCAA has emphasized that the appearance of partiality alone is enough to require recusal.

- The hearing determining whether Bediako can continue playing is scheduled just before Alabama's rivalry game at Auburn.

The outcome could set a precedent for other SEC athletes seeking extra eligibility, including high‑profile quarterbacks at Ole Miss and Tennessee.

Why Sankey's Position Matters for Alabama

For Alabama, Sankey's stance is a political and symbolic blow. The SEC office typically supports its schools in disputes with the NCAA, or at least stays neutral. By siding with the NCAA, Sankey signals that the conference is unwilling to risk long‑term structural instability for short‑term competitive gain.

His filing also gives the NCAA a powerful ally in court-one whose voice carries weight with judges, athletic departments, and national media.

What Comes Next

The court will soon decide whether to extend Bediako's eligibility through a preliminary injunction. If granted, he could play the remainder of the season and potentially into the NCAA Tournament. If denied, Alabama loses a 7‑foot rim protector at a critical point in SEC play.

Regardless of the ruling, Sankey's intervention ensures this case will be remembered by many powerful people within the University of Alabama.