Randolph compares 2017 and 2022 Slovenian NTs: 'I will say that our team was slightly better' / News - Basketnews.com

Anthony Randolph believes the 2017 Slovenian NT was better than nowadays due to the historic moment it managed to achieve.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Anthony Randolph watched the friendly game between two European powers -- Slovenia and Serbia -- in Ljubljana and relived the final from EuroBasket 2017, where he was one of the leading figures.

The American forward, who joined the Slovenian national team in 2017, ahead of the preparation cycle for the European Championship, left a memorable mark in Slovenian basketball history as a naturalized player.

"It was amazing and very nostalgic [to be in the Stozice Arena]. In addition, my family arrived with me, which made the whole thing even more special. The match brought back quite a few good memories, but it's like that every time I return to Slovenia. I created some incredible memories here," Randolph revealed to Sport Klub after the preparation match, which the Slovenian NT won in overtime, 97-92.

Randolph last time represented the team was back in 2018. At that time, he played in FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 European Qualifiers.

But even if he would like to play for the Slovenian NT this summer/autumn, it would not be possible due to his injury.

The 33-year-old is still recovering from the torn ACL which he suffered in the first game of the ACB Finals between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. Prior to this setback, Randolph returned to the floor last December, after more than a year sidelined with an Achilles injury.

"The rehabilitation of the injury is going faster than expected and I know that I will come back even better," Randolph remains optimistic.

Randolph was replaced by his compatriot Mike Tobey in the Slovenian NT. The latter big man had a great debut on the biggest international stage with the squad last summer, averaging 13.7 points, 10.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 21.3 EFF in Tokyo Olympics.

"I played against him [Tobey] for many years. He is an excellent basketball player who has fit perfectly into the national team. I think he's a decent successor to mine," said the Real Madrid player, before looking towards the upcoming EuroBasket in September, where the Slovenians will defend their title.

"We have always said that we are playing to win gold. Slovenia is playing fantastically and it will undoubtedly be difficult to beat them," Randolph stressed.

Finally, he drew parallels between the current lineup and the one from five years ago.

"Of course, I will say that the 2017 team was slightly better. Already, because of what we managed to achieve. It was a historic moment that will probably be very difficult to repeat.

Nevertheless, Slovenians have put together a brilliant national team once again, and I think it can be similarly successful, if not even more so," Randolph concluded.

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