Alabama center Charles Bediako hires agent, will test NBA Draft interest
Charles Bediako may be headed toward the NBA Draft. The Alabama center has reportedly hired an agent and will explore a pro future over the coming months following a first-team All-SEC defensive season.
A 7-footer from Ontario, Canada, Bediako started all 36 games for the Crimson Tide, averaging 6.3 points and 6.0 rebounds a game while shooting 65.2% from the floor. Bediako was a dominant rim protector and often a focal point of Alabama’s top-rated defense. Bediako disrupted shots at the rim and was an adept lob threat on the offensive end.
Bediako hired NBA and NCAA agent Daniel Green, according to Jon Chepkevich of DraftExpress and confirmed by other reports. The NBA Draft is June 22, players have until May 31 to affirm their status or withdraw. Because Green is NCAA-certified, Bediako can return to lead Nate Oats’ defense for his junior season.
“I haven’t thought about it yet,” Bediako said after Alabama’s Sweet 16 loss to San Diego State on March 25. “Maybe probably give it a couple weeks and we’ll see.
“The coaching staff, they helped me get better. Even though we had our days and our moments, obviously I’m very grateful for being able to play with a group of guys like this. I’m so thankful.”
RELATED: Departing Alabama player, coach reflect on Sweet 16 loss to San Diego State
Brandon Miller not among finalists for Wooden Award as player of year
Alabama freshman Brandon Miller announced his intent to enter the NBA Draft on Thursday. Miller compiled a handful of awards across a historic campaign, including an Associated Press first-team All-American. While he too can take his name from draft consideration, Miller is largely expected to be a top-five selection this summer.
As is common for end-of-year roster turnover, multiple players expected to be a part of the 2023-24 season have altered their plans. Nimari Burnett transferred to Michigan. Commit R.J. Johnson will likely be released from his letter of intent. Alabama was able to bring home former G.W. Carver-Montgomery prep star Jaykwon Walton as a transfer.
| Incoming 2023 freshmen | Transfer portal additions | Transfer portal departures | NBA draft | Exhausted eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Davin Cosby (signed/reclassified to 2022 and enrolled early) | Jaykwon Walton (Wichita St.) | Nimari Burnett (Michigan) | Brandon Miller | Noah Clowney |
| Sam Walters (signed) | Charles Bediako (potentially) | Dom Welch | ||
| Mouhamed Dioubate (signed) | ||||
| Kris Parker (committed) |
Nick Alvarez is a reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @nick_a_alvarez or email him at [email protected].