Oliver Miller, Former NBA Center and Arkansas Star, Dies at 54/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Oliver Miller, a former Arkansas Razorbacks standout and nine-year NBA veteran, has passed away at 54. Miller, known as “The Big O,” helped lead Arkansas to the 1990 Final Four and was named SWC Player of the Year in 1991. He played for multiple NBA teams, including the Suns, Pistons, Raptors, and Timberwolves, and was part of Toronto’s inaugural 1995-96 roster.
Remembering Oliver Miller: Arkansas and NBA Star Passes Away at 54 – Quick Looks
- Basketball Career: Played four seasons at Arkansas (1988-92), averaging 12.2 points and 6.5 rebounds.
- Final Four Legacy: Helped lead the Razorbacks to the 1990 NCAA Final Four under Hall of Fame coach Nolan Richardson.
- NBA Journey: Drafted 22nd overall by the Phoenix Suns in 1992, playing nine NBA seasons with teams like the Pistons, Raptors, Mavericks, and Timberwolves.
- Nicknamed ‘Big O’: Known for his massive 6’9”, 280-pound frame, which fluctuated throughout his career.
- Battling Health Issues: Arkansas announced his cancer diagnosis last month; Miller shared a tribute video from his former team before his passing.
- Tributes Pour In: The Toronto Raptors held a moment of silence, and Arkansas honored him as a Razorback legend.
- Beyond the NBA: Played overseas, in minor leagues, and with the Harlem Globetrotters.
Deep Look: The Life and Legacy of Oliver Miller, NBA and Arkansas Star
A College Basketball Standout
- Averaged 12.2 points and 6.5 rebounds per game over his college career.
- Helped lead the Razorbacks to the 1990 NCAA Final Four, where they fell to Duke in the semifinals.
- Named Southwest Conference (SWC) Player of the Year in 1991.
- Inducted into the SWC Hall of Fame for his contributions to Arkansas basketball.
“A true embodiment of the Razorback spirit,” Arkansas said in a tribute post.
NBA Career: A First-Round Pick and Key Role Player
After his standout college career, Miller was selected 22nd overall by the Phoenix Suns in the 1992 NBA Draft.
- Played nine NBA seasons with the Suns, Pistons, Raptors, Mavericks, Kings, and Timberwolves.
- Averaged 7.4 points and 5.9 rebounds per game in his NBA career.
- Part of the inaugural Toronto Raptors roster in 1995-96, selected as the final pick in the 1995 NBA Expansion Draft.
“He holds a special place in our history as a member of our inaugural team,” the Raptors said in a statement.
Challenges With Weight and Basketball Journeys Beyond the NBA
Throughout his career, Miller’s weight fluctuated, impacting his conditioning and playing time. Despite this, he continued to play professionally beyond the NBA.
- Competed overseas in Europe, as well as in the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) and United States Basketball League (USBL).
- Played with the Harlem Globetrotters, bringing his larger-than-life presence to fans around the world.
Health Struggles and Tributes from the Basketball World
Though his cause of death has not been disclosed, Miller had been battling cancer, which was announced during an Arkansas basketball event last month.
- In February, Arkansas honored the 1990 Final Four team, and Miller thanked them for their tribute video on social media.
- The Toronto Raptors held a moment of silence before their game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night.
- Former teams and teammates expressed their condolences and memories of Miller’s impact on and off the court.
“We love you, Big O. Our thoughts are with his family,” Arkansas said in its tribute.
A Legacy That Lives On
Oliver Miller will be remembered not just for his size and skills on the court, but also for his contributions to college basketball, his role in the NBA, and the impact he left on teammates and fans.
While his playing career had its ups and downs, his legacy as a Razorback great and beloved NBA figure remains strong.
“He was a fighter on the court, and we will always remember his contributions to the game,” a former teammate said.
