Former North Carolina and NBA Player Eric Montross Dies at 52
Eric Montross, a former North Carolina and NBA big man, has died after a cancer fight, his family said. He was 52.
The school released the family's announcement Monday morning, saying Montross died Sunday surrounded by loved ones at his Chapel Hill home. He had been diagnosed with cancer in March, leading to him stepping away from his duties as a radio analyst for UNC game broadcasts.
"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 announcement said.
Montross played for the Tar Heels under Dean Smith from 1990-94 and was a two-time Associated Press second-team All-American. He started on Smith's second NCAA championship team in 1993 before being the No. 9 overall pick by the Boston Celtics a year later and playing in the NBA until 2002.
Eric Montross, a former University of North Carolina basketball player and broadcaster, passed away recently. He was not only known for his basketball skills but also for his contributions to the community.
Aside from his broadcasting work, Montross served as the senior major gifts director at the Rams Club, the fundraising arm of UNC's athletics department. He was also involved in charitable efforts, including the launch of a father-child basketball camp to support the UNC Children's Hospital.
The school expressed their condolences and highlighted Montross' impact beyond the basketball court. They described him as a man of faith, a devoted father, husband, and son, and a prominent ambassador for the University and Chapel Hill.
Montross' family had previously announced his illness without disclosing the specific nature of the cancer. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper released a statement mourning Montross' passing and acknowledging his significant contributions to the UNC community and the state.
The governor expressed his sadness and extended his deepest condolences to Montross' family, friends, and the Tar Heels community. He emphasized that Montross had made a big difference in the world.
