Former High School and College stand-out basketball player and first-round NBA draft pick, Eric Montross, has died aged 52, his family members announced on Monday.
The former University of Carolina all-star was diagnosed with cancer nine months ago.
Montross was a High School “All-American” player before helping the North Carolina Tara Heels win a national championship in 1993.
Montross eventually became a first-round draft pick by the Boston Celtics in 1994.
Before retiring in 2022, he played for the Celtics, Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors, Dallas Mavericks, New Jersey Nets, and the Philadelphia 76ers.
Post-career work also included commentating for the Tar Heels Sports Network.
RIP Eric Montross 💚
— Boston Celtics (@celtics) December 18, 2023
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Montross family. pic.twitter.com/kzZbLfZzfZ
North Carolina’s Athletic Department paid tribute to the sports star in a post:
“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.”
“He helped the Rams Club secure scholarships for student-athletes, and as a color analyst for the Tar Heel Sports Network, he brought perspective, heart, and humor to UNC fans near and far.”
“Eric also became an ardent supporter of the Lineberger Center while in college and remained a leader in the fight against cancer throughout his life.”
“We extend our deepest condolences to Laura, his children and entire family, and his colleagues and friends. The number of people who loved Eric and were touched by him is immeasurable.”
I was deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Eric Montross. We lost a great man! He represented The University of North Carolina in a first class manner both on the court and off. No one did it better than Eric. He was way too young. God bless him and his family. pic.twitter.com/8FesnlnkFy
— Matt Doherty (@DohertyMatt) December 18, 2023
Vistage Chair Matt Doherty also paid tribute on X:
“I was deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Eric Montross.”
“We lost a great man! He represented The University of North Carolina in a first-class manner both on the court and off.”
“No one did it better than Eric. He was way too young. God bless him and his family.”
I was deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Eric Montross. We lost a great man! He represented The University of North Carolina in a first class manner both on the court and off. No one did it better than Eric. He was way too young. God bless him and his family. pic.twitter.com/8FesnlnkFy
— Matt Doherty (@DohertyMatt) December 18, 2023
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