Oliver Miller, former NBA center and University of Arkansas standout, passed away at the age of 54, with news of his death announced recently. Miller, known as The Big O, played nine seasons in the NBA and was a key member of the Phoenix Suns’ 1992-93 Finals team. He also helped lead Arkansas to the 1990 Final Four under Hall of Fame coach Nolan Richardson.
Here are the key details surrounding Oliver Miller’s death.
Oliver Miller passes away at 54, claims report
Oliver Miller, a former NBA center and standout player for the University of Arkansas, has passed away at the age of 54.
The Phoenix Suns announced his death on X, and former NBA player Eddie Johnson initially shared the news on social media.
A cause of death was not disclosed, but Miller had previously revealed in February that he was battling cancer.
Miller, known as The Big O, played nine seasons in the NBA after being selected 22nd overall in the 1992 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns. He was a key player on the Suns’ 1992-93 team that reached the NBA Finals. Over his career, he played for the Suns, Toronto Raptors, Detroit Pistons, Minnesota Timberwolves, Dallas Mavericks, and Sacramento Kings. He averaged 7.4 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game in the NBA. (via NBA)
At the University of Arkansas, Miller played from 1988 to 1992 under Hall of Fame coach Nolan Richardson. He helped lead the Razorbacks to the 1990 Final Four, where they lost to Duke. He was named the Southwest Conference Player of the Year in 1991. During his four-year college career, he averaged 12.2 points and 6.5 rebounds per game.
Several of Miller’s former teams and organizations paid tribute to him. The University of Arkansas basketball team described him as “a true embodiment of the Razorback spirit.” The Toronto Raptors honored Miller with a moment of silence before their game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night.
Beyond the NBA, Miller played overseas and in minor leagues, including the Continental Basketball Association, the United States Basketball League, and with the Harlem Globetrotters.
