Florida coach Todd Golden made his thoughts clear regarding the ongoing situation involving Charles Bediako’s eligibility and expressed confidence in the Gators’ upcoming matchup against Alabama.

Bediako, who declared for the 2023 NBA Draft after two seasons at Alabama, went undrafted and signed a two-way contract with the San Antonio Spurs. Recent developments include a lawsuit filed against the NCAA by Bediako, following their denial of his appeal to return to college basketball. A Tuscaloosa County judge, James Roberts, has temporarily allowed Bediako to play for Alabama pending further inquiries, as a hearing is set next week.

Speaking during a Gator Talk radio show, Golden expressed his stance about Bediako’s return:

“I don’t agree with it, and I don’t think he should be playing. I also don’t fault Alabama’s coach Nate Oats because this is a very competitive space, and it’s our jobs to win games.”

Golden also suggested that regardless of Bediako’s presence, Florida is prepared to win:

“We are going to beat them anyway. If he plays, we’ll beat them anyways.”

Golden highlighted concerns over the broader effects of legal interventions in college athletics, stating that rules need to be respected to maintain the integrity of college sports. He commented:

“There’s only so much the league can do… We just need some people to stand up and start taking a stand.”