BREAKING: Former Washington Generals player Ned Randall has died at the age of 91 after a brief illness, confirmed by family members. Randall, known for his unforgettable battles against the famed Harlem Globetrotters, passed away on February 23, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and competition.
Randall, who played for the Generals from the late 1950s to early 1960s, often described his time with the team as the “luckiest thing” that ever happened to him. Despite consistently losing to the Globetrotters, he relished the chance to play basketball, meet celebrities, and travel the world. “It was quite an experience,” he told the Beacon Journal in a 2004 interview.
Born on May 10, 1934, in Akron, Ohio, Randall was a standout basketball player, earning All-City and All-Ohio honors during his high school career. He played a pivotal role in leading the North High School Vikings to consecutive City Series championships in 1951 and 1952. After a brief stint at Bradley University, he joined the U.S. Navy, where he continued to excel in basketball.
Randall’s remarkable journey with the Generals began when he caught the attention of owner-coach Louis “Red” Klotz. “How would you like to go on tour?” Klotz asked after watching Randall play. A few weeks later, he found himself in New York City, debuting before a packed crowd at Madison Square Garden against the Globetrotters.
Throughout his career, Randall faced legendary players like Meadowlark Lemon and Wilt Chamberlain, often playing the comedic straight man in elaborate routines. He was part of nearly 1,000 games, where he would score as many as 20 points in a game, despite the Generals’ comedic role in the show.
Randall also shared unforgettable moments off the court, meeting icons like Dean Martin and Willie Mays. He traveled extensively, even playing before Pope John XXIII in Italy and competing in front of massive crowds across Europe during the Cold War.
Despite the Generals’ notorious record of losing over 13,000 games throughout their history, Randall’s spirit and love for the game never waned. He later played with the College All-Stars, achieving victories against the Globetrotters that his team could not.
After retiring from basketball, Randall returned to Akron, where he married his high school sweetheart, Carole Randall, and raised a family. He worked various jobs, including as a driver for Lawson’s and the House of LaRose, and later as a bus driver for Walsh Jesuit High School.
His sister, Carol Randall Moore, expressed her gratitude, stating, “To me, he was the greatest in the world.” Randall was known for his humility and kindness, maintaining his admiration for the Globetrotters even in his later years, acknowledging their status as “the greatest entertainment.”
Calling hours will take place from 2 PM to 5 PM on March 7 at Hennessy-Bagnoli-Moore Funeral Home in Akron, followed by a memorial service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude’s Research Hospital.
The basketball community mourns the loss of a true sportsman whose legacy will be remembered both on and off the court. Randall’s life story exemplifies the joy of sports, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of competition.
