Tar Heel legend Eric Montross died of cancer on Sunday. He was 52 years old.
As Carolina Athletics reported, Montross passed away surrounded by loved ones at his home in Chapel Hill. His death comes just nine months after the NBA star revealed his cancer diagnosis.
Eric Montross played for the Tar Heels from 1990 to 1994, including his freshman and sophomore seasons. In 1993, when the Tar Heels won the NCAA championship, Montross was the starting center.
After college, Montross became a first-round pick for the Boston Celtics. He played nine seasons in the NBA. Following his retirement from the court, Eric Montross was an analyst for the Tar Heel Sports Network for 18 seasons before retiring this year.
It is with a heavy heart that we bring you this update from the family of Eric Montross.
Rest in peace Big E.
🔗: https://t.co/EgOjPTSh2B pic.twitter.com/V3TgxZDWPm
– Carolina Basketball (@UNC_Basketball) December 18, 2023
UNC’s tragic announcement included a statement from Eric Montross’ family.
“The family of Eric Montross (Laura, Sarah, Andrew and Megan) announces that he passed away on Sunday, December 17, surrounded by his loved ones at his home in Chapel Hill,” the statement read. “[H]“This family is grateful for the tremendous support and truly overwhelming love expressed by so many people as he fought with his trademark determination and grace.”
“They also thank the many members of the medical community and, in particular, those at the UNC Lineberger Cancer Center, who combined their fight with equal passion.”
“To know Eric was to be his friend, and the family knows that the repercussions of the generous and thoughtful way he lived his life will continue in the lives of many people he touched with his deep and sincere kindness. “The family asks for privacy during this difficult period.”
Carolina Athletics pays tribute to the late Eric Montross
Following the news of Eric Montross’ passing, Carolina Athletics wrote a statement mourning the loss.
“Carolina Athletics, the Tar Heel basketball family and the entire university community are deeply saddened and stunned by the loss of Eric Montross, one of our most beloved former student-athletes, at too young an age.”
“Eric was a great player and an outstanding student, but the impact he had on our community went far beyond the basketball court. He was a man of faith, an excellent father, husband and son, and one of the most recognized ambassadors for 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, 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 express our deepest condolences to Laura, her children and her entire family, as well as her colleagues and friends. “The number of people who loved Eric and were touched by him is immeasurable.”
Categories: Biography
Source: vcmp.edu.vn