Internet pays tribute to Eric Montross as ex-UNC basketball star and NBA player dies due to cancer

CHAPEL HILL, NC: The basketball community is grieving the loss of one of its luminaries, Eric Montross, an esteemed UNC alumnus and NBA player, who has sadly lost his battle with cancer. He was 52 years old. 

The family of Montross, a cherished personality in the sport reportedly confirmed the news on Monday, December 18. 

As word of his death circulates, fans and peers alike are taking to the internet to remember him, resonating with the sentiment, "He was a super great guy!"

How did Eric Montross die?

In a statement released by UNC Basketball, the family of Eric Montross - Laura, Sarah, Andrew, and Megan - announced his death.

"He died on Sunday, December 17, surrounded by his loved ones at his home in Chapel Hill," the family shared.

They further revealed that Eric was diagnosed with cancer in March 2023, and expressed their gratitude for the immense support and outpouring of love from "so many people as he battled with his signature determination and grace."

The statement reads, "A STATEMENT FROM THE MONTROSS FAMILY

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."

"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. The family asks for privacy during this difficult period."

Eric Montross' career from UNC to NBA stardom

From 1990 to 1994, Montross was a key player for UNC, etching his name in the annals of Tar Heels history.

He was the starting center for the 1993 NCAA championship team, coached by the legendary Dean Smith, which triumphed over Michigan’s Fab Five in the final game.

That same year, Montross received first-team All-ACC and Final Four all-tournament honors.

In 1994, Montross was selected as the ninth overall pick by the Boston Celtics, marking the beginning of his nine-year stint in the NBA.

During his career, he played for six different teams, with his longest tenure (almost four seasons) being with the Detroit Pistons. He retired in 2003 due to complications with his foot.

In 2005, he reportedly returned to his roots, joining the Tar Heels Sports Network as a color commentator for UNC men’s basketball games. He continued in this role until he was diagnosed with cancer in March 2023, per Yahoo Sports.

Eric Montross was a 'super great guy'

The internet is awash with tributes and fond memories as it mourns the loss of Eric Montross. 

Jake Eichstaedt, Sports Director, WWAY-TV, LLC took to X, formally known as Twitter, and shared, "Eric Montross was known for being such a nice guy. I never met him, but got a chance to see his heart in this video."

"He sent it to our friend DJ McLeod when he graduated from high school while battling cancer himself. R.I.P. Eric Montross."

The Sports Director added in a separate tweet, "And, amazingly, today I wore my #DJSTRONG socks to work… Heaven gained another worthy soul on Sunday. He was letting me know with my intentions."

A second user wrote, "Awww no!! He was huge when I was growing up in NC. RIP Eric Montross!"

"I had the pleasure of meeting him a couple years back , sad day for all in Tar Heels Nation," stated another.

"RIP Big E you will be missed my friend. Your kindness, your love for people and of course the Carolina blue blood that’s runs through you was nothing to be matched," mentioned Vince Carter, basketball analyst.

"Prayers to the Montross family and my Tarheel family as we mourn the loss of a Tarheel legend…"

"Honestly he is the reason I went to UNC and fell in love with Carolina basketball, will be missed," penned another individual.

“Gentle giant,” an apt description. Rest in peace, Eric. @UNC_Basketball," claimed another basketball analyst. 

Boston Celtics shared on Facebook, "RIP Eric Montross Our thoughts and prayers are with the Montross family."

Jay Bilas, an ESPN college basketball analyst mentioned, "Heartbroken. Eric Montross was the nicest, kindest person one could ever know. A great player and champion, husband, father, friend, and a truly wonderful, beautiful soul. RIP Eric Montross."

ESPN college basketball analyst Dick Vitale wrote, "Yes ERIC MONTROSS played so so much PRIDE when he wore the @unc_basketball uniform which led to ALL AMERICAN status .however a terrific player that he was he was even a better person . My go out to his family & all his Tar Heel fans at this difficult time . May ERIC RIP!"

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.