Remembering Larry Miller: UNC Basketball Legend Dies at 79
The University of North Carolina basketball community is mourning the loss of one of its earliest and most iconic stars, Larry Miller, who passed away on May 11, 2025, at the age of 79.
Miller, a two-time ACC Player of the Year (1966, 1967) and consensus All-American, played for the Tar Heels from 1965 to 1968 under legendary coach Dean Smith. He was one of the first players to fully embody Smith’s vision for Carolina basketball—tough, unselfish, and fundamentally sound—and helped establish the foundation for the program’s future dominance.
A Tar Heel Trailblazer
Originally from Catasauqua, Pennsylvania, Miller arrived in Chapel Hill as a standout prep star and quickly became a fan favorite for his intensity and scoring ability. He played a central role in leading the Tar Heels to two Final Four appearances in 1967 and 1968, establishing himself as one of the best players in program history.
Miller finished his UNC career with 1,982 points, a school record at the time, and averaged 21.8 points and 9.2 rebounds per game. His performances earned him national acclaim and helped elevate Dean Smith’s reputation as a rising coaching force.
Professional Career
Though Miller was selected by the Philadelphia 76ers in the 1968 NBA Draft, he chose to play in the American Basketball Association (ABA) instead, where he enjoyed a solid professional career with several teams including the Carolina Cougars, Virginia Squires, and San Diego Conquistadors. He averaged over 13 points per game during his time in the ABA and was known for his gritty, old-school style of play.
A Complex Life and Honest Legacy
In later years, Miller opened up about personal challenges he faced during and after his basketball career. In 2021, he published a memoir titled “Larry Miller Time: The Story of a Basketball Great”, in which he reflected on both his triumphs and struggles—including his time in the ABA, the pressure of being a rising star, and battles with identity and mental health.
Miller remained closely tied to the Tar Heel program throughout his life and was frequently seen at alumni events and honored during UNC basketball ceremonies. His passion for the game and connection with the university never waned.
Tributes and Reflections
UNC Head Coach Hubert Davis called Miller “a pillar of Tar Heel tradition,” while former teammates and fans praised his role in laying the groundwork for future greats like Michael Jordan, James Worthy, and Tyler Hansbrough.
“Larry was one of the reasons North Carolina became North Carolina,” said one former teammate. “Before the championships and the legends, he was the one making headlines.”
Legacy
Larry Miller’s No. 44 jersey is honored in the rafters of the Dean Smith Center—not retired, but recognized for his exceptional contributions to the program. His legacy as a trailblazer, competitor, and champion of UNC values will live on through generations of Tar Heels.
He is survived by his family, former teammates, and countless fans who will forever remember his impact—both on the court and off.
