His former teammates and teams are mourning his passing, honoring his impact on the game and the legacy he left in the basketball world.
Former NBA star Oliver Miller, known for his imposing presence on the court and a lengthy career in the league, has passed away at the age of 54.
Former professional basketball player Edward ‘Eddie’ Arnet Johnson announced the news on X, “I am so sad to report we have lost another @NBA Fraternity member! Nine-year veteran Oliver Miller has passed away at age 54! Going to miss you Big O. 🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿🙏🏿. RIP.”
Known as “The Big O” for his physique, Miller was a standout at Arkansas from 1988 to 1992. After his demise was announced, tributes began pouring in from the NBA community and those who knew him.
The National Basketball Retired Players Association mourned his loss on X, “The basketball community has lost a Legend. Our hearts are with the family, friends and fans of Oliver Miller. #LegendsForever.”
Arkansas Razorbacks Men’s Basketball also penned their tribute on X, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Arkansas legend Oliver Miller.”
They recognized Miller as a vital part of the 1990 Final Four team, an SWC Hall of Famer, a first-round NBA draft pick, and a true representation of the Razorback spirit. The team added, “We love you Big O. Our thoughts are with his family. 🐗❤️.”
The Phoenix Suns, one of Miller’s former teams, wrote a heartfelt message on X, “Rest in Peace, Big O 💜🧡.” The Toronto Raptors also honored his legacy, with a message on Instagram. They wrote, “The Toronto Raptors are saddened to learn of the passing of Oliver Miller, who spent three seasons with our organization.”
They shared that Miller played a significant role in the team’s history as part of its inaugural 1995 roster. Additionally, the organization expressed deep appreciation for his contributions and extended heartfelt condolences to his family.
Now, Miller’s family, including his beloved grandchildren, is mourning their loved one. After retiring, Miller cherished time with his grandchildren. In 2022, he shared a heartfelt selfie with his two grandsons beaming beside him.
He expressed his love for them in the caption, “They showed up to put a smile on my face. Gotta love em. My heartbeats. Y gbabies #justayoungmanfromsouthsidefunkytown #ToBeBetterDoBetter.”
As the family continues to receive condolences and tributes, they have yet to disclose Miller’s cause of death. Furthermore, the announcement of Miller’s death comes just a day after news broke out that iconic former NBA player and wealthy entrepreneur Junior Bridgeman passed away at the age of 71. Reports have revealed the circumstances surrounding his demise, which involved a medical emergency.
Bridgeman’s death occurred after requiring medical attention during a high-profile fundraising event at the Galt House Hotel on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
The evening took an unexpected and tragic turn when he was taken away by first responders, who arrived swiftly at the scene, in an ambulance. A hotel representative confirmed the medical emergency.
Jerry Eaves, head basketball coach and athletic director at Simmons College of Kentucky, also corroborated the tragic event, further validating the immense shock and grief rippling through the city and beyond.
The Al J. Schneider Company, which owns the Galt House Hotel, later confirmed the basketball legend’s passing in an official statement, describing Bridgeman as a “Louisville icon.”
Lance George, Chief Marketing Officer of AI J. Schneider Company, expressed condolences, emphasizing the deep loss felt by the community.
“Junior Bridgeman was an integral part of our community. From his athletic impact to his philanthropic efforts, he will be deeply missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Bridgeman family during this time,” George stated.
In the wake of Bridgeman’s passing, many who had the pleasure of either interacting or working with him have dedicated tributes in his honor. One such heartfelt dedication comes from the Milwaukee Bucks, the franchise where he made his mark as both a player and an owner.
The team expressed profound grief over the loss, dubbing Bridgeman a “Bucks legend” whose contributions to the organization will never be forgotten.
The message also mentioned how his retired No. 2 jersey continues to hang in Fiserv Forum, a lasting symbol of his talent and impact on the court.
Beyond his athletic legacy, the Bucks acknowledged Bridgeman’s extraordinary achievements off the court. They highlighted his “hard work and perseverance” that propelled him into the ranks of the country’s top business leaders.
The statement also reflected on Bridgeman’s full-circle return to the organization as an owner, a testament to his enduring connection with the Bucks. “His memory will always be an inspiration to the Bucks organization,” noted the team.
Offering heartfelt condolences, the Bucks acknowledged Bridgeman’s wife, his children, the entire family, and his friends, underscoring the depth of the loss felt.
Louisville Athletics also paid tribute to Bridgeman on X, honoring his legacy as a standout member of their basketball program.
Alongside their sentimental words, they included a black-and-white throwback photo of Bridgeman from his college basketball days—a nostalgic nod to his early rise in the sport.
Bridgeman’s time at Louisville laid the foundation for his illustrious career, and his impact on the program extended far beyond his playing years.
The statement emphasizes the “unmatched legacy” he leaves behind and expresses gratitude for his contributions to the university and the city as a whole. Additionally, Louisville Athletics extended their deepest condolences to Bridgeman’s family and loved ones.
