What happened to Oliver Miller? Tributes pour in as former Phoenix Suns player dies at 54

The Phoenix Suns legend, Oliver Miller, passed away on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at 54. Many confirmed his death, including the National Basketball Retired Players Association, the Arkansas Razorbacks, the Phoenix Suns, and more on X (formerly Twitter).

The cause of Big O’s death was not disclosed immediately, but the ex-NBA star was battling with cancer. In his last post on X, Miller confirmed his health struggles. The former Razorbacks player reposted a video that supposedly celebrated the 1990 Final Four team and mentioned his “courageous battle with cancer.” Oliver wrote:

“Means alot. Still n tears. #WPS”

Sports columnist, Wally Hall, also posted about the former Suns player’s death on X and mentioned “cancer” as the cause:

“Oliver "Big O' Miller has passed. Cancer. Prayers for his family.”

After his death, many remembered the University of Arkansas Sports Hall of Honor inductee, who spent nine seasons in the NBA.

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Many pay tribute to Oliver Miller, aka Big O, on X

The Arkansas Razorbacks, Toronto Raptors, Phoenix Suns, and many others posted about the former player’s demise. Many fans also mourned the death of Big O on X by paying him a tribute and sharing anecdotes about him.

The Raptors displayed their sadness after Oliver Miller’s passing and also wrote:

“He [Oliver] 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. We send our deepest condolences to the Miller family.”

Big O was a part of the Razorbacks for four years and a 1990 Final Four team member. The University of Arkansas’ basketball team also showcased their sorrow and added:

“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.”

The Suns also posted a picture of Oliver in their jersey and wrote:

“Rest in Peace, Big O”

NBA Alumni (NBRPA) also paid tribute to the late Suns center:

“The basketball community has lost a Legend. Our hearts are with the family, friends and fans of Oliver Miller.”

“I remember my dad taking me to watch him play at Southwest. Was a BEAST in HS,” a user recounted.

“Man, remember watching him on 1st @Suns team i can remember. Sad. Prayers for family for sure,” another user recalled.

“Dang it…I loved that dude. Played with so much heart,” someone wrote.

“He had great moments and games when they went to the finals,” another one added.

A user shared their childhood memory of watching Oliver Miller:

“I was a kid during that 92-93 finals run and he was one of my favorite players on that team. // RIP big fella. The fans remember you.”

Another user remembered meeting the NBA player in their childhood:

“Had the opportunity to meet him courtside before a Suns / Sixers game in the early 90’s. Super humble and funny dude. Meant the world to me as a kid to talk to a NBA player. Great memory and great person. Big O 🙏”

During his nine-season-long NBA career, Big O averaged 7.4 points and 5.9 rebounds. Oliver Miller played for the Raptors, the Suns, the Mavericks, and multiple other teams.