NBL news 2022: Latest in Craig Randall II’s departure from the Adelaide 36ers

Adelaide star Antonius Cleveland has revealed his thoughts on sacked guard Craig Randall amid revelations the 36ers were warned off signing the talented “hothead”.

Adelaide 36ers star recruit Antonius Cleveland says it’s not his job to recommend axed import Craig Randall II to a rival club, confirming the troubled guard was a “hothead” amid revelations of a furious departing act.

News Corp can reveal Randall stormed out of the 36ers’ dressing room before the coach’s post-game address in a bitter final straw to his exit from the franchise after just six regular season games.

The import guard was so incensed with starting off the bench in last round’s loss to Perth that he just grabbed his bags and left immediately after the game.

Randall’s career is now in limbo after the 36ers released him due to multiple indiscretions, which negatively impacted the team’s chemistry.

Craig Randall II is searching for a new team after parting ways with the Adelaide 36ers. Picture: Getty Images

The talented yet troubled guard experienced similar behavioural problems during his G League stint with the Long Island Nets last season.

Watch every game live of the 2022/23 NBL Season on ESPN on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >

Cleveland wouldn’t be shocked to see a club, including one in the NBL sign Randall, but he would be reluctant to recommend him to another team.

“I’m the kind of player that I like to keep my name clean,” Cleveland said.

“I don’t want to suggest anyone, and something happens and it doesn’t work out and now I lose credit.

“So, I wouldn’t suggest him. This is just me personally and I wanted to be truthful about everything, but I think he can definitely help those teams.

“Maybe some people can think that they could work through it.

“It’s a high risk, high reward you know, with a bit of talent like that.”

Adelaide was warned not to sign Craig Randall II. Picture: Getty Images

It can also be revealed that multiple respected parties warned Adelaide officials not to sign Randall in the pre-season.

The club considered releasing the gifted guard after a heated blow-up during the pre-season Blitz, but baulked when he dropped 35 points against the NBA’s Phoenix Suns in a historic pre-season victory.

Adelaide coach CJ Bruton attempted to work with Randall, and encourage him to buy into the team-first culture, but the 26-year-old kept putting himself before the team through his selfish behaviour.

The 36ers players and coaching staff reached breaking point after last Saturday’s loss to the Wildcats, leaving the club with no choice but to part ways with the former G League guard.

36ers officials will now turn their attention towards recruiting an import guard to replace Randall.

News Corp has been told Adelaide officials have mentioned reigning MVP Jaylen Adams, who was recently cut by Serbian side, Crvena zvezda.

An ugly ‘rap sheet’ and chemistry issues with teammates and coaches prompted the Adeaide 36ers to release talented import Craig Randall II. See the full list of problems here. 🏀👇https://t.co/56pOAtijRm

— Matt Logue (@mattlogue7) November 8, 2022

Adams said his heart lies with the Kings if he was to return to the NBL, but it won’t stop the 36ers from making inquires.

Cleveland confirmed Randall had issues with his temper, but the team attempted to help him.

“We all knew that he was hothead at times, so I just tried to be like a big brother and help him along the way,” Cleveland said.

“I just tried to be a good teammate and I got along with him pretty good.

“I’m still in shock. It’s bittersweet, you never want to see anyone lose their job, but to help us move forward and to help the team.

“It’s just an unfortunate situation.

“It’s time to put our focus on the team now and try and get a win.”

Key 36ers players approached club officials saying they could no longer play with Randall due to his damaging impact on the team’s culture.

Cleveland says he wasn’t one of those players, but he was aware of meetings between Randall and other teammates.

“I know Craig was in a couple of meetings talking about this situation and his behaviour with some players and staff,” he said.

Originally published as NBL news 2022: Latest in Craig Randall II’s departure from the Adelaide 36ers