URGENT UPDATE: Former Washington Generals player Ned Randall has died at the age of 91 after a brief illness. Randall, known for his spirited battles against the Harlem Globetrotters during the late 1950s and early 1960s, passed away on February 23, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of entertainment and sportsmanship.
Randall’s journey began in Akron, Ohio, where he showcased remarkable talent as a basketball player. “It was the luckiest thing that ever happened to me in my life,” he shared in a 2004 interview, reflecting on his time with the Generals. Despite often losing to the Globetrotters, Randall embraced the experience of touring the world, meeting celebrities, and playing basketball at iconic venues.
Born on May 10, 1934, Randall excelled in high school basketball, leading his team to consecutive City Series titles and earning All-City and All-Ohio honors. His journey took an unexpected turn when he joined the U.S. Navy after a brief stint at Bradley University. There, he continued to play basketball, eventually catching the attention of Louis “Red” Klotz, owner-coach of the Generals.
In 1958, Randall was recruited by Klotz, leading to his debut in front of a packed Madison Square Garden as the Generals faced off against the Globetrotters. He played alongside legendary players like Meadowlark Lemon and Wilt Chamberlain, often participating in the Globetrotters’ famous routines.
Randall’s career with the Generals was marked by a staggering record of over 13,000 losses against the Globetrotters, yet he remained proud of the entertainment they provided. “The show is them to win,” he noted, emphasizing the spectacle over the competition. He earned around $500 a month (approximately $5,700 today) while enjoying a lifestyle that included celebrity encounters and international tours.
His family described him as a humble man who cherished his time in the spotlight. “To me, he was the greatest in the world,” said his sister, Carol Randall Moore. Randall is survived by his wife of 63 years, Carole Randall, their five children, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Calling hours are scheduled for 2 to 5 p.m. on March 7 at Hennessy-Bagnoli-Moore Funeral Home in Akron, followed by a memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude’s Research Hospital.
Ned Randall’s impact on basketball and entertainment will be remembered fondly, as he once expressed admiration for the Harlem Globetrotters, stating, “They are probably the greatest entertainment.” His contributions to the sport, even in defeat, highlight a life well-lived in the game he loved.
