NBA-Jazz owner Miller dies aged 64

Utah Jazz owner Larry H Miller has died due to complications from diabetes, the team announced on its website on Friday.

The 64-year-old entrepreneur was in the 24th year of his ownership of the Jazz franchise.

Under Miller's direction, the Jazz became perennial playoff contenders leading to the construction of Energy Solutions Arena in 1991 in the city's downtown area.

A native of Salt Lake City, Miller was known for his strong Mormon faith and connection to the community.

"Larry's legacy extends beyond the NBA as he touched many lives in the Salt Lake City region through his business ventures and charitable endeavors," NBA commissioner David Stern said in a statement.

"The NBA lost a great leader, colleague and friend on Friday. We will miss him."

He is survived by his wife Gail, five children and 20 grandchildren.

First Published: Feb 21, 2009 10:43 IST