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Judge Recuses in Charles Bediako Eligibility Case as New Hearing Is Set

The lawsuit moves forward under a different jurist with a Feb. 6 injunction hearing that may determine whether his court-ordered playing status continues.

Overview

  • Tuscaloosa Circuit Judge James H. Roberts Jr. stepped aside after the NCAA pointed to his Crimson Tide Foundation donor listing and the resulting appearance of partiality.
  • The case was reassigned to Judge Daniel Pruet, who set a preliminary-injunction hearing for Feb. 6.
  • An extended temporary restraining order keeps Bediako eligible for Florida and Texas A&M, with his availability for the Feb. 7 Auburn game dependent on the court’s decision.
  • The NCAA said it was not alleging actual bias in the TRO, while Bediako’s attorneys pursue temporary and permanent relief to restore his college eligibility.
  • Since being cleared to play under the TRO, Bediako has appeared in two games, averaging 13.5 points and 4.5 rebounds on 81.8% shooting.