BREAKING: Former Washington Generals player Ned Randall has died at the age of 91. Randall, who famously played against the Harlem Globetrotters during the late 1950s and early 1960s, passed away on February 23, 2024, after a brief illness.
This news strikes a chord for basketball fans and those who cherished the joyous spectacle of Randall’s games against the legendary Globetrotters. As a member of the Generals, Randall was part of the team that lost over 13,000 games throughout its history, yet he relished his experiences on the court.
Born on May 10, 1934, in Akron, Ohio, Randall grew up playing basketball and was a standout player at North High School. He became an All-City, All-Ohio player and led the city in scoring during his senior year. His career took a significant turn when he joined the Generals in 1958, after being discovered by coach Louis “Red” Klotz.
Randall recalled his first game against the Globetrotters, played before a packed crowd at Madison Square Garden. “It was the first of two games that day, with about 20,000 fans cheering,” he said. He played alongside legendary players like Meadowlark Lemon and even faced off against a young Wilt Chamberlain.
His time with the Generals was filled with laughter and camaraderie, despite the loss record. “The show is them to win,” Randall noted, emphasizing that while the Globetrotters entertained the crowd with tricks, the Generals still aimed to score seriously. “I often put up 20 points in games,” he mentioned, underscoring his competitive spirit.
Randall’s journey took him across the globe, touring Europe and playing in historic venues. He vividly remembered playing in front of Pope John XXIII in Italy and performing in soccer stadiums filled with enthusiastic crowds. “We’d play in games where we’d have 80,000 in a soccer field,” he recalled.
After leaving the Generals, Randall transitioned into a fulfilling life off the court. He married Carole Cammel in 1962 and raised a family in North Hill. Randall worked various jobs, including as a driver and later as a bus driver for Walsh Jesuit High School.
His sister, Carol Randall Moore, shared her heartfelt reflections: “To me, he was the greatest in the world. I talked to him the day before he died and I am so thankful.” In light of his passing, calling hours will be held on March 7, 2024, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Hennessy-Bagnoli-Moore Funeral Home in Akron.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Jude’s Research Hospital. Randall’s legacy lives on, not only as a player but as a beloved figure who cherished every moment of his unique basketball journey. “The Harlem Globetrotters are probably the greatest entertainment,” he said, reflecting on his time with the iconic team.
Stay tuned for more updates as the community remembers this remarkable athlete and his contributions to the sport.
