Oliver Miller, a robust center known for his contributions to Arkansas’ Final Four run and his nine-year NBA career, has passed away at the age of 54. His death was confirmed by several of his former teams and the National Basketball Retired Players Association. While the cause of death was not specified, it was revealed by Arkansas that Miller had been battling cancer. He expressed gratitude for a video tribute from his alma mater’s 1990 Final Four team in a social media post last month.
Affectionately nicknamed “The Big O” due to his imposing 6-foot-9, 280-pound physique (which expanded to over 300 pounds in the NBA), Miller excelled at Arkansas from 1988 to 1992. He played a pivotal role in Coach Nolan Richardson’s team making it to the Final Four in 1990 and was named Southwest Conference Player of the Year in 1991.
Arkansas paid tribute to Miller, recognizing him as a key member of their Final Four team and an SWC Hall of Famer. Drafted by the Phoenix Suns in 1992, Miller went on to have a solid NBA career with various teams such as the Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors, and Sacramento Kings. He also showcased his skills in Europe, the Continental Basketball Association, and with the Harlem Globetrotters.
The Toronto Raptors, one of Miller’s former teams, honored him with a moment of silence before their game against the Philadelphia 76ers and expressed their deepest condolences to his family. Toronto highlighted Miller’s special place in their history as a member of the inaugural team in 1995.
