By: Justin Gincauskas

Former North Carolina center Eric Montross passed away Sunday at the age of 52 after a battle with cancer. His family released a statement Monday through the University of North Carolina.

“The family of Eric Montross (Laura, Sarah, Andrew, and Megan) is announcing that he passed away on Sunday, December 17, surrounded by loved ones at his home in Chapel Hill,” his family said in the statement. “Eric was diagnosed with cancer in March 2023, and 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.”

“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.”

Montross played four seasons at UNC from 1990-94. He was the starting center for North Carolina when they captured the National Championship in 1993. Montross averaged 11.7 points and 6.8 rebounds per game in his college career.

Montross was named to the NCAA All-Tournament team in 1993 and the Consensus All-America second team in 1993 and 1994.

The Boston Celtics selected Montross with the ninth overall pick in the 1994 NBA draft. He spent time with the Dallas Mavericks, New Jersey Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, and Toronto Raptors. In his rookie season, Montross made the All-Rookie second team.

Montross averaged 4.5 points and 4.6 rebounds per game in the NBA before retiring in 2003.

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