North Carolina At Chapel Hill

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In a poignant announcement on Monday morning, the Montross family shared the heartbreaking news of the passing of Eric Montross, the former North Carolina and NBA basketball stalwart, who succumbed to his valiant battle with cancer at the age of 52. Surrounded by his loved ones at his Chapel Hill residence, Eric bid farewell on Sunday, leaving a void in the hearts of those who admired him not only for his athletic prowess but also for his unwavering spirit and deep kindness.

The journey began in March when Eric was diagnosed with cancer, prompting him to step away from his role as a radio analyst for UNC game broadcasts. The Montross family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support during Eric’s challenging battle, highlighting the generous and thoughtful way he lived his life—a legacy that will undoubtedly continue to ripple through the lives of those touched by his profound kindness.

A towering figure on and off the basketball court, Eric Montross played for the Tar Heels under the legendary Dean Smith from 1990 to 1994. A two-time Associated Press second-team All-American, Eric’s impact was instrumental in securing the Tar Heels’ second NCAA championship in 1993. His contributions were not limited to the college stage; he was the No. 9 overall pick by the Boston Celtics in 1994, embarking on a fruitful NBA career that spanned until 2002.

Eric’s basketball journey included a significant connection with current Carolina coach Hubert Davis, sharing the court as teammates during his first two seasons. Notably, the 1992-93 season saw the Tar Heels consistently ranked in the top five of the AP Top 25, a testament to their prowess. Eric Montross emerged as a standout player, leading the team in scoring with an average of 17.5 points and 7.6 rebounds. In the 1993 Final Four, he further solidified his legacy with an impressive average of 19.5 points in victories over Kansas and Michigan.

Beyond the court, Eric Montross seamlessly transitioned into various roles, showcasing his multifaceted talents. In addition to his broadcast duties, he served as the senior major gifts director at the Rams Club, the fundraising arm of UNC’s athletics department. Recognized for his charitable efforts, Eric played a pivotal role in launching a father-child basketball camp for Father’s Day weekend, supporting the UNC Children’s Hospital—a testament to his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the world of sports.

The school’s statement captures the essence of Eric’s influence: “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.”

Eric’s battle with cancer became a public journey, marked not only by his resilience but also by his commitment to raising funds for children’s cancer research. His frequent visits to cancer patients, often accompanied by UNC athletes on spirit-boosting hospital trips, showcased a compassionate side that endeared him to many.

As news of Eric’s passing reverberated through the sports world, tributes and condolences flooded in from colleagues, friends, and admirers. Former teammate Derrick Phelps, a part of the 1993 NCAA Title team, expressed profound grief, saying, “This news really hurts! RIP Big Fella! Love you my center!!”

Jay Bilas, a former player at Duke and current basketball analyst at ESPN, shared his heartbreak, describing Eric as “the nicest, kindest person one could ever know.” ESPN analyst Dick Vitale echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Eric’s qualities beyond the basketball court, calling him “one of the nicest guys I have ever met in my basketball journey.”

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper acknowledged Eric’s broader contributions, stating, “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.”

In commemorating Eric Montross, we celebrate a life that transcended the boundaries of sports—a life marked by resilience, kindness, and a profound impact on the community. As we reflect on his legacy, let us remember the Big E for his contributions, both on and off the court, and the indelible mark he left on the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.eric montross,eric montross cancer,unc eric montross,eric montross dies of cancer,eric montross highlights,eric montross unc,eric montross nba,montross,eric montross 1993 unc team,tar heel eric montross,unc analyst eric montross dies,death,eric montross unc analyst,unc basketball legend eric montross dies,eric montross highlights unc,unc basketball eric montross,former unc tar heel eric montross dies of cancer,mobile health,democratic convention