Charles Bediako

Charles Bediako's Biography

Charles A. Bediako Jr., a Canadian professional basketball player was born on March 10, 2002. Currently playing for the Grand Rapids Gold of the NBA G League, his basketball journey encompasses an extensive adventure beginning from his high school days to notable accomplishments in the shimmering arena of the world’s premier basketball league.

Bediako initiated his high school basketball career at Ridley College, where he shared the court with his brother, Jaden. As the young athlete continued to hone his skills and evolve as a player, his junior year witnessed a transition to Andrews Osborne Academy. His senior year further brought a transition to IMG Academy, underlining an exciting high school trajectory loaded with learnings and diverse experiences. During his senior season at IMG Academy, Bediako dished out impressive performances averaging 13.2 points and 12.7 rebounds per game.

His extraordinary talent and athletic exploits soon came into spotlight, leading to his selection in the coveted Jordan Brand Classic roster. Bediako made significant waves in the recruiting scene, garnering a consensus four-star recruit status, and was recognized as one of the top centers in the 2021 class.

On April 6, 2021, Bediako pledged his collegiate allegiances to Alabama, side-lining offers from other renowned programs including Duke, Michigan, Texas, and Ohio State. His freshman year at Alabama saw him average 6.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game, reflecting his growing influence on the hardwood floor. His efforts did not go unrecognized as he was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team.

Catching the eye of professional scouts and NBA prospectors, on March 31, 2023, Bediako declared his intentions of entering the NBA Draft pool. His announcement was accompanied by his decision to sign with an agent while maintaining his eligibility. His NBA journey gathered steam when he announced on May 24, 2023, his decision to waive off any remaining eligibility in college basketball to further focus on his NBA draft prospects.

In preparation for the draft, Bediako completed pre-draft workouts with notable teams including the Memphis Grizzlies, Portland Trail Blazers, Utah Jazz, Oklahoma City Thunder, Dallas Mavericks, San Antonio Spurs, Charlotte Hornets, Boston Celtics, and Toronto Raptors. He also competed in the NBA G League Elite Camp in Chicago from May 13–14, 2023. Despite not being invited to the NBA Draft Combine, the measurements taken at the Elite Camp held testament to his imposing figure of 6 foot 10 without shoes, 223.4 pounds of weight, and an impressive 7-foot-3 wingspan.

Undeterred by going undrafted in the 2023 NBA draft, Bediako joined the San Antonio Spurs for the 2023 NBA Summer League, ultimately signing with them on October 2, 2023. His contract was later converted into a two-way contract on October 23. However, after suffering a torn meniscus, he was waived by the Spurs on December 29, 2023. He still managed to make a significant impact with the Austin Spurs, averaging 7.7 points and 6.9 rebounds in 19.0 minutes over 11 appearances.

Bediako further extended his basketball journey, joining Orlando Magic for the 2024 NBA Summer League and subsequently signing with the Denver Nuggets on October 8, 2024. Nevertheless, after being waived by the Nuggets, on October 28, Bediako joined the Grand Rapids Gold setting the stage for the latest chapter of his evolving professional journey.

In addition to his domestic basketball endeavors, Bediako has been a proud representative of Canada, moonlighting for the national team in various under-19 international games. He contributed to Canada finishing second and fourth respectively in the 2018 FIBA Under-18 Americas Championship and the 2018 FIBA Under-17 Basketball World Cup. In the 2021 FIBA Under-19 Basketball World Cup, his display helped Canada clinch the bronze medal.

Born in Canada, Bediako is of Ghanaian descent. The sport runs deep in his blood, with his brother Jaden playing for the Seton Hall basketball team and his sister Jada partaking in the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets women’s basketball team. His family’s shared passion and his personal dedication shape the ongoing legacies of Charles Bediako Jr., an athlete certainly worth keeping an eye on.