Former North Carolina Tar Heels basketball player Eric Montross passed away on Sunday after a nine-month battle with cancer, his family announced on Monday. He was 52 years old.
According to a statement released by the Tar Heels’ basketball program, Montross died at his home in Chapel Hill, surrounded by loved ones.
Standing at 7 feet tall, Montross played a pivotal role in the North Carolina team coached by the legendary Dean Smith that won the NCAA title in 1993. He arrived at Chapel Hill with high expectations in 1990 and became a standout player under Smith’s guidance, remaining a key figure for the Tar Heels over the next four seasons. During his tenure, he was teammates with current Tar Heels coach Hubert Davis for two seasons.
Davis expressed his devastation over Montross’s passing, describing him as a friend, teammate, and dedicated family man who cherished his role as a Tar Heel.
During the 1992-93 regular season, Montross, as a junior, averaged 17.5 points and 7.6 rebounds per game, contributing significantly to the team’s journey to the Final Four. He played a pivotal role in victories against Kansas in the semifinals and Michigan in the championship game, averaging 19.5 points per game. Montross was recognized as a consensus second-team All-American during that season and the following year.
The University mourned Montross’s loss, emphasizing his contributions both on and off the court. Beyond his athletic achievements, he was praised for his faith, family values, and his role as an ambassador for the University and Chapel Hill.
Montross was drafted in the first round (No. 8) by the Boston Celtics in the 1994 NBA draft and enjoyed an eight-season career in the NBA, representing various teams including the Celtics, Dallas Mavericks, New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, and Toronto Raptors. He retired from professional basketball in 2003 due to a foot injury.
Following his retirement, Montross served as an analyst for the Tar Heel Sports Network for 18 seasons before stepping away upon revealing his cancer diagnosis in March.
