The Euroleague’s 50 best players: 40-31

32. Anthony Randolph, PF, Real Madrid

Nationality/College: American/Slovenian (LSU)

2017-18 stats: 8.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, 0.8 assists per game (Real Madrid)

Career synopsis: Most NBA fans know Randolph’s NBA story: A phenomenal athlete who just did not understand the game at all, and matriculated for years through the Warriors, Knicks, Timberwolves, and Nuggets. But since he left the NBA, he’s been a productive Euroleague player, playing two seasons with Lokomotiv Kuban, and two with Real Madrid. He’s been to the last three Final Fours, has one title, and was All-Euroleague Second Team in 2016.

Representative Highlight Play:

What’s his skill set?: In Euroleague, Anthony Randolph excels by relying on his instincts and his athleticism. He performs well on the break, but also serves as a strong outlet along the baseline, where he can hit 18-footers or rise up for a dunk off an outlet pass. He’s also a very strong weakside shot blocker, which Real Madrid allows him to do while Ayon or Tavares handles the primary post assignment.

What makes him special?: Randolph is the poster child for the idea that the NBA doesn’t have to be the only goal for a professional player, and that if you fail in the NBA, it doesn’t mean you’re necessarily a bad player. Randolph has been great in Euroleague at what he’s asked to do — react on the fly, finish plays, and play to his strengths in a strict system that discourages his bad habits. He’s an NBA caliber player, but the NBA wasn’t a good fit for him — instead, he’s found a home in Euroleague, and should still be considered a success.