Oliver Miller, the formidable center who played an instrumental role in Arkansas’s journey to the Final Four and later enjoyed a nine-year career in the NBA, has passed away at the age of 54. News of his passing was confirmed by various teams he had been a part of, in addition to the National Basketball Retired Players Association. While the cause of death remains undisclosed, it was known that Miller had cancer, a fact revealed during an event celebrating the 1990 Final Four team at Arkansas. Last month, he acknowledged the tribute from his team via social media.
Nicknamed “The Big O” because of his imposing stature of 6 feet 9 inches and 280 pounds—later surpassing 300 pounds during his professional career—Miller made a mark at Arkansas between 1988 and 1992. He averaged 12.2 points and 6.5 rebounds over those years, achieving recognition for his contributions to the team. Under the guidance of the Naismith Hall of Fame coach, Nolan Richardson, the 1989-90 team reached the Final Four before succumbing to Duke. In recognition of his performance, Miller was awarded the Southwest Conference Player of the Year in 1991.
“We are profoundly saddened by the loss of Arkansas legend Oliver Miller,” read a statement from the Arkansas team on social media. Calling him an integral part of the 1990 Final Four team, an SWC Hall of Famer, a first-round NBA draft choice, and a genuine representation of Razorback spirit, the statement conveyed love and condolences to Miller’s family.
Miller entered the NBA in 1992 after being selected by Phoenix as the 22nd overall pick. Over his NBA tenure, he posted averages of 7.4 points and 5.9 rebounds, and donned jerseys for the Phoenix Suns, Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors, Dallas Mavericks, Sacramento Kings, and Minnesota Timberwolves. Beyond the NBA, his career extended to playing in Europe, the Continental Basketball Association, the United States Basketball League, and with the Harlem Globetrotters.
To honor Miller, the Toronto Raptors held a moment of silence prior to their home game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night. Miller was notably the last pick in the 1995 expansion draft that helped form the Raptors’ inaugural team. “He holds a special place in our history,” the Raptors expressed on social media, acknowledging his contributions to the team’s foundation and extending heartfelt condolences to his family.
