The 1993 NCAA Champion and former NBA talent, Eric Montross, has unfortunately passed away at the age of 52. The news has been saddening for North Carolina, as they are mourning one of their favourite personalities.
According to a statement released by the family, Montross was diagnosed with cancer in March. He was battling with the disease and was getting his treatment from the UNC Lineberger Cancer Center. Subsequently, after battling with the disease, he left for his heavenly abode on December 17, 2023.
According to ESPN, the statements from his family came forward via the University of North Carolina, stating, “His family is grateful for the tremendous support and the truly overwhelming love expressed by so many people as he battled with his signature determination and grace,”
“To know Eric was to be his friend, and the family knows that the ripples from the generous, thoughtful way that he lived his life will continue in the lives of the many people he touched with his deep and sincere kindness.”
The former center of the North Carolina Tar Heels played under the Hall of Fame coach, Dean Smith, from 1990 to 1994. He was with the squad when they clinched the NCAA Championship and was named an All-American when he was a senior and a junior as well.
The University of North Carolina, with a heavy heart, also shared, “Carolina Athletics, the Tar Heel basketball family and the entire University community are profoundly saddened and stunned by the loss of Eric Montross, one of our most beloved former student-athletes, at far too young an age.”
“Eric was a great player and accomplished student, but the impacts he made on our community went way beyond the basketball court. He was a man of faith, a tremendous father, husband and son, and one of the most recognizable ambassadors of the University and Chapel Hill.”
Montross had spent eight seasons in the NBA and wore multiple jerseys throughout his prominent career. He was selected by the Boston Celtics in the first round as the ninth overall pick.
From 1996 to 1997, he was with the Dallas Mavericks and then he went on to join the New Jersey Nets and Philadelphia 76ers. From 1997 to 2001, he was with the Detroit Pistons and he ended his career with the Toronto Raptors. His number, No. 00, is honoured by the North Carolina Tar Heels.
So very sad to hear of the loss of Eric Montross whose contributions to the UNC community and our state went far beyond his championship basketball skills. Our deepest condolences go out to all family, friends and Tar Heels. The Big E made a big difference in this world. – RC https://t.co/LF4rZhoKsV
— Governor Roy Cooper (@NC_Governor) December 18, 2023
Heartbroken. Eric Montross was the nicest, kindest person one could ever know. A great player and champion, husband, father, friend, and a truly wonderful, beautiful soul. RIP Eric Montross. https://t.co/fUhw41rQpp
— Jay Bilas (@JayBilas) December 18, 2023
Our family will be forever thankful for the long, warm friendship of Eric Montross & #HeyWoody. Eric’s kindness toward my Dad in the late years of his career and beyond meant so much. 🙏🏻 to Laura and their family, but all we will miss this special, gentle man. pic.twitter.com/FjOHw5LZwm
— 𝐖𝐞𝐬 𝐃𝐮𝐫𝐡𝐚𝐦 (@WesDurham) December 18, 2023
This is awful news. I had a chance to get to know Eric Montross over the years and he was the nicest, most unassuming person you would ever meet. Just a terrific guy who always had time for anyone and everyone. This is heartbreaking to hear. https://t.co/ODOhUrTtmq
— Jeff Goodman (@GoodmanHoops) December 18, 2023
Saddened to hear the news of Eric Montross. As good an athlete he was 10x better the person. Made you feel like best friends even in brief conversations with him. May God bless his friends and family in this difficult time. 🙏🙏
— Chris_Corchiani (@Chris_Corchiani) December 18, 2023
Always greeted #EricMontross with “Hey Little Fella!!” And he would return with “What’s up Big Guy?” even though he was a full foot taller than me… It was our thing 😔… A Giant with an even bigger heart, gone too soon. Praying for his family and the @UNC_Basketball Family 🙏🏾🙏🏾
— Cory Alexander (@CoryAlexanderVA) December 18, 2023
Montross worked as a radio analyst for the UNC game for 18 seasons after his active career concluded. In addition to his work, he was also recognized for his philanthropic endeavours for UNC Children’s Hospital.
