The basketball world is mourning the loss of Oliver Miller, a former NBA center and Arkansas Razorbacks legend, who passed away at the age of 54. Several of Miller’s former teams, along with the National Basketball Retired Players Association, confirmed his passing on Wednesday. While the official cause of death has not been disclosed, Arkansas had previously shared that he was battling cancer.
Arkansas Razorbacks legend, Oliver Miller, left the NBA world mourning
Oliver Miller, who was nicknamed “The Big O,” made a name for himself as a dominant force at Arkansas from 1988 to 1992. Standing 6-foot-9 and weighing 280 pounds— though his weight fluctuated throughout his career— he was one of the star players for coach Nolan Richardson. His contribution was crucial in leading the Razorbacks to the 1990 Final Four, where they fell to Duke.
In 1991, Miller earned Southwest Conference Player of the Year honors, creating his place among Arkansas’ all-time greats. The Razorbacks honored his contributions with a heartfelt message: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Arkansas legend Oliver Miller. A key member of the 1990 Final Four team, an SWC Hall of Famer, a first-round NBA draft pick and a true embodiment of the Razorback spirit. We love you Big O. Our thoughts are with his family.”
Miller entered the NBA as the 22nd overall pick in the 1992 draft, selected by the Phoenix Suns. As a rookie, he played a huge role in the Suns’ 1993 NBA Finals run alongside Charles Barkley, averaging 7.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks in 24 playoff games.
Over his nine-year NBA career, Miller played for six teams, including the Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors, Dallas Mavericks, Sacramento Kings, and Minnesota Timberwolves. He also had stints overseas and with the Harlem Globetrotters. His best individual season came in 1995-96 with the Raptors, where he averaged 12.9 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.9 assists while playing in 76 games.
Following the news of Miller’s passing, the Suns paid their respects with a simple yet heartfelt message: “Rest in Peace, Big O.” Phoenix Suns broadcaster Eddie Johnson also shared his grief, writing, “I am so sad to report we have lost another @NBA Fraternity member! Nine-year veteran Oliver Miller has passed away at age 54! Going to miss you Big O. RIP.”
The Raptors, a team where Miller played in their inaugural 1995 season, held a moment of silence before their game against the Philadelphia 76ers. The team shared a tribute, stating, “He holds a special place in our history as a member of our inaugural team in 1995, and we are so grateful for all his contributions. We send our deepest condolences to the Miller family.”
Also Read: Former NBA star and business mogul Junior Bridgeman passes away at 71
The Texas native’s demise has left the NBA world mourning, with fans sharing their heartfelt tribute on social media.
Get the latest IPL 2025 updates on Times of India, including match schedules, team squads, and live scores for CSK, MI, RCB, KKR, SRH, LSG, DC, GT, PBKS, and RR. Find out how to watch IPL 2025 in Canada and the USA.