Chapel Hill, NC. Eric Montross, a Tar Heel basketball icon, died on Sunday at the age of 52, according to his family.
Montross was surrounded by loved ones in his Chapel Hill home. His family said he was diagnosed with cancer in March.
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Montross played for Dean Smith from 1990 until 1994. He was also teammates with current UNC head coach Hubert Davis as a freshman and sophomore. Montross played a key role in the Tar Heels’ NCAA championship victory in 1993.
Montross was drafted in the first round by the Boston Celtics and played nine seasons in the NBA. He was the analyst on Tar Heel Sports Network for 18 seasons before stepping away this season.
Carolina Athletics said Montross’ family expressed gratitude for the community’s overwhelming love and support as he battled cancer. The family also thanked the medical community, particularly those at UNC Lineberger Cancer Center.
Carolina Athletics released the following statement:
“ Carolina Athletics, the Tar Heel basketball family, and the whole University community are deeply saddened and devastated by the passing of Eric Montross, one of our most cherished former student-athletes, at such a young age. Eric was an excellent basketball player and student, but his impact on our community extended far beyond the floor. He was a man of faith, a wonderful parent, husband, and son, and one of the most visible representatives of the University and Chapel Hill.
“He assisted the Rams Club in obtaining scholarships for student-athletes, and as a colour analyst for the Tar Heel Sports Network, he provided perspective, heart, and humour to UNC fans far and wide. Eric became a passionate supporter of the Lineberger Centre in college and has been a cancer fighter his entire life.
“We send our heartfelt sympathies to Laura, his children, and the rest of his family, as well as his colleagues and friends. The number of people who loved Eric and were moved by him is enormous.”
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