Who was the former Tar Heels star Eric Montross who passed away at 52 years old?
It’s a sad day for both NCAA’s North Carolina fans, as well as those of the NBA after reports confirmed the passing of of the former Tar Heels star.
Widely regarded as one of the most iconic Tar Heels, the 7-footer who was a stand-out player during Dean Smith’s last NCAA title-winning team in 1993. Sadly, his family announced on Sunday that he had passed away.
Fomrer North Carolina star Eric Montross has died
According to reports on Sunday, former North Carolina Tar Heels star Eric Montross passed away on Sunday at the age of 52. Announced by his family via the University of North Carolina, Montross’ death comes shortly after he announced - in October to be precise - that he would be taking a break from his broadcasting duties, in order to focus on his health. This of course was a man who played for the Celtics, Mavericks, Nets, 76ers, Pistons, and Raptors between 1994 and 2002. Following his career in the NBA, he joined North Carolina’s program, where he worked as an analyst for quite some time. In March of this year, he was diagnosed with cancer, and in October he stated he would be taking a step back from the game. Sadly, Montross did not live to retake the reins.
“His family is grateful for the tremendous support and the truly overwhelming love expressed by so many people as he battled with his signature determination and grace,” his family’s statement read. “They also thank the many members of the medical community—and particularly those at UNC Lineberger Cancer Center—who matched his fight with equal passion. To know Eric was to be his friend, and the family knows that the ripples from the generous, thoughtful way that he lived his life will continue in the lives of the many people he touched with his deep and sincere kindness.”
A look at Eric Montross
When it comes to what brought him to the professional game, it really comes down to his collegiate years. From 1990 to 1994, Montross was a true star under Dean Smith at UNC. Having joined the Tar Heels following an incredible showing in Indianapolis, he was heralded as a bright hope. It’s also worth noting, that in 1992-93, the Tar Heels were ranked in the top five of the AP Top 25, and for more than half of the season, never dropped below No. 8. Who was a central figure in that team and arguably the most reliable player, as well as being it’s leading scorer with an average of 17.5 points and 7.6 rebounds. He would go on to secure several more records before bringing the curtain down on his career.
OK, let’s get to Eric Montross’ history
Selected as the No. 9 overall pick in the 1994 NBA Draft, Montross was taken by the Boston Celtics and was named Second Team All-Rookie after debuting with averages of 10.0 points and 7.3 rebounds. Truthfully, Montross’ story can be counted as yet another example of the idea of when one does not fulfill potential. Despite the eight years that he spent in the NBA, he never quite achieved what many hoped he would.
“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,” the school said in its statement. “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 Montross’ story is somewhat sad
Indeed it is. Why is that? Simply because Montross’ spent decades helping to raise money for children’s cancer research and frequently visited cancer patients - often accompanying UNC athletes when they would visit patients in hospitals. To that end, one can imagine that the big man will be missed. Ultimately, it’s clear that memories of Montross will go far beyond the 1993 NCAA Tournament championship team with which he played. Indeed, Montross was also part of the Tar Heels team that made the 1991 Final Four. During his time with the Tar Heels, he played in 139 games, registering a record of 114-27 during, while winning 1993 ACC regular-season championship. Additionally, Montross also achieved the rare honor of being named a First Team Academic All-American.