Former NBA center Oliver Miller dies at 54
Oliver Miller, the former Arkansas standout who played nine seasons in the NBA, has died at the age of 54.
Several of his former teams, along with the National Basketball Retired Players Association, confirmed his passing on Wednesday. While the cause of death was not disclosed, Arkansas had previously announced that Miller was battling cancer.
Last month, he acknowledged the team's video tribute to him on social media.
Nicknamed "The Big O" for his imposing 6-foot-9, 280-pound frame— which later exceeded 300 pounds during his professional career— Miller made his mark at Arkansas from 1988 to 1992.
He averaged 12.2 points and 6.5 rebounds over four seasons, playing a key role in guiding Hall of Fame coach Nolan Richardson's 1989-90 team to the Final Four. In 1991, he was named Southwest Conference Player of the Year.
"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Arkansas legend Oliver Miller," Arkansas stated in a social media post. "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 was selected 22nd overall by the Phoenix Suns in the 1992 NBA Draft. Over his career, he averaged 7.4 points and 5.9 rebounds while playing for the Suns, Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors, Dallas Mavericks, Sacramento Kings, and Minnesota Timberwolves.
His basketball journey also took him to Europe, the Continental Basketball Association, the United States Basketball League, and even a stint with the Harlem Globetrotters.
The Toronto Raptors, who selected Miller in the 1995 expansion draft, honored him with a moment of silence before their game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday.
"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," the Raptors posted on social media. "We send our deepest condolences to the Miller family."
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